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i '/ 


UNTHINKING  BOY.  THAT  SACRILEGIOUS  FOOT  TREADS  ON  THY  MOTHER  S GRAVE. PAGE  39fv 


/IDobawfe  Edition 


THE  WORKS 

OF 

James  Fenimore  Cooper 

LIONEL  LINCOLN 

OR 

THE  LEAGUER  OF  BOSTON 


G.  P.  PUTNAM’S  SONS 

NEW  YORK  LONDON 

27  WEST  TWENTY-THIRD  STREET  24  BEDFORD  STREET,  STRAND 

Jmcherbocher  Jpress 
1896 


?13 

C 78  2.0 


TO 

WILLIAM  JAY, 


OF 

BEDFORD,  WESTCHEvSTER, 

ESQUIRE. 


My  Dear  Jay, 

An  unbroken  intimacy  of  four-and-twenty  years  may  justify  the 
present  use  of  your  name.  A man  of  readier  wit  than  myself  might, 
on  such  a subject,  find  an  opportunity  of  saying  something  clever, 
concerning  the  exalted  services  of  your  father.  No  weak  testimony 
of  mine,  however,  can  add  to  a fame  that  belongs  already  to  pos- 
terity ; and  one  like  myself,  who  has  so  long  known  the  merits,  and 
has  so  often  experienced  the  friendship  of  the  son,  can  find  even 
better  reasons  for  offering  these  Legends  to  your  notice. 

Very  truly  and  constantly, 

Yours, 

THE  AUTHOR. 


\ 


O/sf  OY o 


/ 


PREFACE. 


THE  manner  in  which  the  author  became  possessed 
of  the  private  incidents,  the  characters,  and  the 
descriptions  contained  in  these  tales,  will,  most 
probably,  ever  remain  a secret  between  himself 
and  his  publisher.  That  the  leading  events  are  true,  he 
presumes  it  is  unnecessary  to  assert ; for  should  inherent 
testimony,  to  prove  that  important  point,  be  wanting,  he  is 
conscious  that  no  anonymous  declaration  can  establish  its 
credibility. 

But  while  he  shrinks  from  directly  yielding  his  authori- 
ties, the  author  has  no  hesitation  in  furnishing  all  the  nega- 
tive testimony  in  his  power. 

In  the  first  place,  then,  he  solemnly  declares  that  no 
unknown  man  or  woman  has  ever  died  in  his  vicinity,  of 
whose  effects  he  has  become  the  possessor,  by  either  fair 
means  or  foul.  No  dark-looking  stranger,  of  a morbid 
temperament,  and  of  inflexible  silence,  has  ever  transmitted 
to  him  a single  page  of  illegible  manuscript.  Nor  has  any 
landlord  furnished  him  with  materials  to  be  worked  up  into 
a book,  in  order  that  the  profits  might  go  to  discharge  the 
arrearages  of  a certain  consumptive  lodger,  who  made  his 
exit  so  unceremoniously  as  to  leave  the  last  item  in  his 
account,  his  funeral  charges. 

He  is  indebted  to  no  garrulous  tale-teller  for  beguiling  the 
long  winter  evenings ; in  ghosts  he  has  no  faith  ; he  never 
had  a vision  in  his  life  ; and  he  sleeps  too  soundly  to  dream. 
He  is  constrained  to  add,  that  in  no  “puff,”  “ squib,’  * 


v 


VI 


preface 


“ notice,”  article,”  or  " review,”  whether  in  daily,  weekly, 
monthly,  or  quarterly  publication,  has  he  been  able  to  find  a 
single  hint  that  his  humble  powers  could  improve.  No  one 
regrets  this  fatality  more  than  himself;  for  these  writers 
generally  bring  a weight  of  imagination  to  their  several 
tasks,  that,  properly  improved,  might  secure  the  immor- 
tality of  any  book,  by  rendering  it  unintelligible. 

He  boldly  asserts  that  he  has  derived  no  information  from 
any  of  the  learned  societies — and  without  fear  of  contradic- 
tion ; for  why  should  one  so  obscure  be  the  exclusive  object 
of  their  favors  ! 

Notwithstanding  he  occasionally  is  seen  in  that  erudite 
and  abstemious  association,  the  “ Bread-and-Cheese  launch,” 
where  he  is  elbowed  by  lawyers,  doctors,  jurists,  poets, 
painters,  editors,  congressmen,  and  authors  of  every  shade 
and  qualification,  whether  metaphysical,  scientific,  or  imagi- 
native ; he  avers  that  he  esteems  the  lore  which  is  there 
culled,  as  far  too  sacred  to  be  used  in  any  work  less  dignified 
than  actual  history. 

Of  the  colleges  it  is  necessary  to  speak  with  reverence  ; 
though  truth  possesses  claims  even  superior  to  gratitude. 
He  shall  dispose  of  them  by  simply  saying,  that  they  are 
entirely  innocent  of  all  his  blunders  ; the  little  they  bestowed 
having  long  since  been  forgotten. 

He  has  stolen  no  images  from  the  deep,  natural  poetry  of 
Bryant  ; no  pungenc}^  from  the  wit  of  Halleck  ; no  felicity 
of  expression  from  the  richness  of  Percival ; no  satire  from 
the  caustic  pen  of  Paulding  ; no  periods  nor  humor  from 
Irving ; nor  any  high  finish  from  the  attainments  exhibited 
by  Verplanck. 

At  the  “ soirees  ” and  “ coteries  des  bas  blues  ” he  did 
think  he  had  obtained  a prize,  in  the  dandies  of  literature 
who  haunt  them.  But  experience  and  analysis  detected  his 
error ; as  they  proved  these  worthies  unfit  for  any  better 
purpose  than  that  which  their  own  instinct  had  already 
dictated. 

He  has  made  no  impious  attempt  to  rob  Joe  Miller  of  his 
jokes;  the  sentimentalists  of  their  pathos;  or  the  news- 
paper Homers  of  their  lofty  aspirations. 


preface 


Vll 


His  presumption  has  not  even  imagined  the  vivacity  of 
the  Eastern  States ; he  has  not  analyzed  the  homogeneous 
‘character  of  the  Middle ; and  he  has  left  the  South  in  the 
undisturbed  possession  of  all  their  saturnine  wit. 

In  short,  he  has  pilfered  from  no  black-letter  book,  or 
sixpenny  pamphlet ; his  grandmother  unnaturally  refused 
her  assistance  to  his  labors  ; and,  to  speak  affirmatively,  for 
once,  he  wishes  to  live  in  peace,  and  hopes  to  die  in  the  fear 
9f  God. 


LIONEL  LINCOLN. 


CHAPTER  I. 


“ My  weary  soul  they  seem  to  soothe, 

And,  redolent  of  joy  and  youth, 

To  breathe  a second  spring.  ” 

Gray. 


O American  can  be  ignorant  of  the  principal  events 
that  induced  the  Parliament  of  Great  Britain,  in 
1774,  to  lay  those  impolitic  restrictions  on  the 
port  of  Boston  which  so  effectually  destroyed  the 
trade  of  the  chief  town  in  her  western  colonies.  Nor  should 
it  be  unknown  to  any  American  how  nobly,  and  with  what 
devotedness  to  the  great  principles  of  the  controversy,  the 
inhabitants  of  the  adjacent  town  of  Salem  refused  to  profit 
by  the  situation  of  their  neighbors  and  fellow-subjects. 
In  consequence  of  these  impolitic  measures  of  the  English 
government,  and  of  the  laudable  unanimity  among  the 
capitalists  of  the  times,  it  became  a rare  sight  to  see  the 
canvas  of  any  other  vessels  than  such  as  wore  the  pen- 
nants of  the  king,  whitening  the  forsaken  waters  of  Massa- 
chusetts Bay. 


Towards  the  decline  of  a day  in  April,  1775,  however,  the 
eyes  of  hundreds  had  been  fastened  on  a distant  sail,  which 
was  seen  rising  from  the  bosom  of  the  waves,  making  her 
way  along  the  forbidden  track,  and  steering  directly  for  the 
mouth  of  the  proscribed  haven.  With  that  deep  solicitude 
in  passing  events  which  marked  the  period,  a large  group  of 


2 


Lionel  Xlncolrt 


spectators  was  collected  on  Beacon  Hill,  spreading  from  its 
conical  summit  far  down  the  eastern  declivity,  all  gazing 
intently  on  the  object  of  their  common  interest.  In  so  large 
an  assemblage,  however,  there  were  those  who  were  excited 
by  very  different  feelings,  and  indulging  in  wishes  directly 
opposite  to  each  other.  While  the  decent,  grave,  but  wary 
citizen  was  endeavoring  to  conceal  the  bitterness  of  the  sen- 
sations which  soured  his  mind,  under  the  appearance  of  a 
cold  indifference,  a few  gay  young  men,  who  mingled  in  the 
throng,  bearing  about  their  persons  the  trappings  of  their 
martial  profession,  were  loud  in  their  exultations,  and 
hearty  in  their  congratulations  on  the  prospect  of  hearing 
from  their  distant  homes  and  absent  friends.  But  the  long, 
loud  rolls  of  the  drums,  ascending  on  the  evening  air,  from 
the  adjacent  common,  soon  called  these  idle  spectators,  in  a 
body,  from  the  spot,  when  the  hill  was  left  to  the  quiet  pos- 
session of  those  who  claimed  the  strongest  right  to  its  enjoy- 
ment. It  was  not,  however,  a period  for  open  and  unre- 
served communications.  Long  before  the  mists  of  evening 
had  succeeded  the  shadows  thrown  from  the  setting  sun,  the 
hill  was  entirely  deserted  ; the  remainder  of  the  spectators 
having  descended  from  the  eminence,  and  held  their  sev- 
eral courses,  singly,  silent,  and  thoughtful,  towards  the  rows 
of  dusky  roofs  that  covered  the  lowland,  along  the  eastern 
side  of  the  peninsula.  Notwithstanding  this  appearance  of 
apathy,  rumor — which,  in  times  of  great  excitement,  ever 
finds  means  to  convey  its  whisperings,  when  it  dare  not 
bruit  its  information  aloud — was  busy  in  circulating  the 
unwelcome  intelligence,  that  the  stranger  was  the  first  of  a 
fleet,  bringing  stores  and  reinforcements  to  an  army  already 
too  numerous,  and  too  confident  of  its  power,  to  respect  the 
law.  No  tumult  or  noise  succeeded  this  unpleasant  annunci- 
ation, but  the  doors  of  the  houses  were  sullenly  closed,  and 
the  windows  darkened,  as  if  the  people  intended  to  express 
their  dissatisfaction,  alone,  by  these  silent  testimonials  of 
their  disgust. 

In  the  meantime  the  ship  had  gained  the  rocky  entrance 
to  the  harbor,  where,  deserted  by  the  breeze,  and  met  by  an 
adverse  tide,  she  lay  inactive,  as  if  conscious  of  the  unwel- 


monel  ^Lincoln 


3 


come  reception  she  must  receive.  The  fears  of  the  inhabi- 
tants of  Boston  had,  however,  exaggerated  the  danger  ; for 
the  vessel,  instead  of  exhibiting  the  confused  and  disorderly 
throng  of  licentious  soldiery  which  would  have  crowded  a 
transport,  was  but  thinly  peopled,  and  her  orderly  decks 
wTere  cleared  of  every  incumbrance  that  could  interfere  with 
the  comfort  of  those  she  did  contain.  There  was  an  appear- 
ance in  the  arrangements  of  her  external  accommodations 
which  would  have  indicated  to  an  observant  eye  that  she 
carried  those  who  claimed  the  rank  or  possessed  the  means 
of  making  others  contribute  largely  to  their  comforts.  The 
few  seamen  who  navigated  the  ship  lay  extended  on  differ- 
ent portions  of  the  vessel,  watching  the  lazy  sails  as  they 
flapped  against  the  masts,  or  indolently  bending  their  looks 
on  the  placid  waters  of  the  bay ; while  several  menials,  in 
livery,  crowded  around  a young  man  who  was  putting  his 
eager  inquiries  to  the  pilot,  that  had  just  boarded  the  vessel 
off  the  Graves.  The  dress  of  this  youth  was  studiously  neat, 
and  from  the  excessive  pains  bestowed  on  its  adjustment,  it 
was  obviously  deemed,  by  its  wearer,  to  be  in  the  height  of 
the  prevailing  customs.  From  the  place  where  this  inquisi- 
tive party  stood,  nigh  the  main-mast,  a wide  sweep  of  the 
quarter-deck  was  untenanted  ; but  nearer  to  the  spot  where 
the  listless  seaman  hung  idly  over  the  tiller  of  the  ship,  stood 
a being  of  altogether  different  mould  and  fashion.  He  was 
a man  who  would  have  seemed  in  the  very  extremity  of  age, 
had  not  his  quick,  vigorous  steps,  and  the  glowing,  rapid 
glances  from  his  eyes,  as  he  occasionally  paced  the  deck, 
appeared  to  deny  the  usual  indications  of  many  years.  His 
form  was  bowed,  and  attenuated  nearly  to  emaciation.  His 
hair,  which  fluttered  a little  wildly  around  his  temples,  was 
thin,  and  silvered  to  the  whiteness  of  at  least  eighty  winters. 
Deep  furrows,  like  the  lines  of  great  age  and  long  endured 
cares  united,  wrinkled  his  hollow  cheeks,  and  rendered  the 
bold,  haughty  outline  of  his  prominent  features  still  more 
remarkable.  He  was  clad  in  a simple  and  somewhat  tar- 
nished suit  of  modest  gray,  which  bore  about  it  the  ill-con- 
cealed marks  of  long  and  neglected  use.  Whenever  he 
turned  his  piercing  look  from  the  shores,  he  moved  swiftly 


4 


Lionel  ^Lincoln 


along  the  deserted  quarter-deck,  and  seemed  entirely  en- 
grossed with  the  force  of  his  own  thoughts,  his  lips  moving 
rapidly,  though  no  sounds  were  heard  to  issue  from  a mouth 
habitually  silent.  He  was  under  the  influence  of  one  of 
those  sudden  impulses  in  which  the  body,  apparently,  sym- 
pathized so  keenly  with  the  restless  activity  of  the  mind, 
when  a young  man  ascended  from  the  cabin,  and  took  his 
stand  among  the  interested  and  excited  gazers  at  the  land, 
on  the  upper  deck.  The  age  of  this  gentleman  might  have 
been  five-and-twenty.  He  wore  a military  cloak,  thrown 
carelessly  across  his  form,  which  in  addition  to  such  parts  of 
his  dress  as  were  visible  through  its  open  folds,  sufficiently 
announced  that  his  profession  was  that  of  arms.  There  was 
an  air  of  ease  and  high  fashion  gleaming  about  his  person, 
though  his  speaking  countenance  at  times  seemed  melan- 
choly, if  not  sad.  On  gaining  the  deck,  this  young  officer, 
encountering  the  eyes  of  the  aged  and  restless  being  who 
trod  its  planks,  bowed  courteously  before  he  turned  away  to 
the  view,  and  in  his  turn  became  deeply  absorbed  in  study- 
ing its  fading  beauties. 

The  rounded  heights  of  Dorchester  were  radiant  with  the 
rays  of  the  luminary  that  had  just  sunk  behind  their  crest, 
and  streaks  of  paler  light  were  playing  along  the  waters,  and 
gilding  the  green  summits  of  the  islands  which  clustered 
across  the  mouth  of  the  estuary.  Far  in  the  distance  were 
to  be  seen  the  tall  spires  of  the  churches,  rising  out  of  the 
deep  shadows  of  the  town,  with  their  vanes  glittering  in  the 
sunbeams,  while  a few  rays  of  strong  light  were  dancing 
about  the  black  beacon,  which  reared  itself  high  above  the 
conical  peak,  that  took  its  name  from  the  circumstance  of 
supporting  this  instrument  of  alarms.  Several  large  vessels 
were  anchored  among  the  islands  and  before  the  town,  their 
dark  hulls  at  each  moment  becoming  less  distinct  through 
the  haze  of  evening,  while  the  summits  of  their  long  lines  of 
masts  were  yet  glowing  with  the  marks  of  day.  From  each 
of  these  sullen  ships,  from  the  low  fortification  which  rose 
above  a small  island  deep  in  the  bay,  and  from  various  ele- 
vations in  the  town  itself,  the  broad  silky  folds  of  the  flag  of 
England  were  yet  waving  in  the  currents  of  the  passing  air. 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


5 


The  young  man  was  suddenly  aroused  from  gazing  at  this 
scene  by  the  quick  reports  of  the  evening  guns,  and  while 
his  eyes  were  yet  tracing  the  descent  of  the  proud  symbols 
of  the  British  power  from  their  respective  places  of  display, 
he  felt  his  arm  convulsively  pressed  by  the  hand  of  his  aged 
fellow  passenger. 

“ Will  the  day  ever  arrive,”  said  a low,  hollow  voice  at  his 
elbow,  4 4 when  those  flags  shall  be  lowered,  never  to  rise  again 
in  this  hemisphere  ? ’ ’ 

The  young  soldier  turned  his  quick  eyes  to  the  countenance 
of  the  speaker,  but  bent  them  instantly  in  embarrassment  on 
the  deck,  to  avoid  the  keen,  searching  glance  he  encountered 
in  the  looks  of  the  other.  A long,  and,  on  the  part  of  the 
young  man,  a painful  silence,  succeeded  this  remark.  At 
length  the  youth,  pointing  to  the  land,  said, — 

44  Tell  me,  you  who  are  of  Boston,  and  must  have  known 
it  so  long,  the  names  of  all  these  beautiful  places  I see.” 

44  And  are  you  not  of  Boston,  too?  ” asked  his  old  com- 
panion. 

44  Certainly,  by  birth,  but  an  Englishman  by  habit  and 
education.” 

4 4 Accursed  be  the  habits,  and  neglected  the  education, 
which  would  teach  a child  to  forget  its  parentage  ! ’ ’ mut- 
tered the  old  man,  turning  suddenly,  and  walking  away 
so  rapidly  as  to  be  soon  lost  in  the  forward  parts  of  the 
ship. 

For  several  minutes  longer  the  youth  stood  absorbed  in 
his  own  musings,  when,  as  if  recollecting  his  previous  pur- 
poses, he  called  aloud, — 44  Meriton  ! ” 

At  the  sounds  of  his  voice  the  curious  group  around  the 
pilot  instantly  separated,  and  the  highly  ornamented  youth, 
before  mentioned,  approached  the  officer  with  a manner  in 
which  pert  familiarity  and  fearful  respect  were  peculiarly 
blended.  Without  regarding  the  air  of  the  other,  however, 
or  indeed  without  even  favoring  him  with  a glance,  the 
young  soldier  continued, — 

4 4 I desired  you  to  detain  the  boat  which  boarded  us,  in 
order  to  convey  me  to  the  town,  Mr.  Meriton  ; see  if  it  be  in 
readiness.” 


6 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


The  valet  flew  to  execute  this  commission,  and  in  an  in- 
stant returned  with  a reply  in  the  affirmative. 

“ But,  sir,”  he  continued,  ‘‘you  will  never  think  of  going 
in  that  boat,  I feel  very  much  assured,  sir.” 

“Your  assurance,  Mr.  Meriton,  is  not  the  least  of  your 
recommendations  ; why  should  I not  ? ” 

“ That  disagreeable  old  stranger  has  taken  possession  of  it, 
with  his  mean,  filthy  bundle  of  rags  ; and — ’ ’ 

“ And  what?  you  must  name  a greater  evil,  to  detain  me 
here,  than  mentioning  the  fact  that  the  only  gentleman  in  the 
ship  is  to  be  my  companion.” 

“Lord,  sir!”  said  Meriton,  glancing  his  eye  upward  in 
amazement : ‘ ‘ but,  sir,  surely  you  know  best  as  to  gentility 
of  behavior  ; but  as  to  gentility  of  dress — ” 

“ Enough  of  this,”  interrupted  his  master,  a little  angrily  ; 
‘ ‘ the  company  is  such  as  I am  content  with  ; if  you  find  it 
unequal  to  your  deserts,  you  have  my  permission  to  remain 
in  the  ship  until  the  morning  ; the  presence  of  a coxcomb 
is  by  no  means  necessary  to  my  comfort  for  one  night.  ’ ’ 
Without  regarding  the  mortification  of  his  disconcerted 
valet,  the  young  man  passed  along  the  deck  to  the  place 
where  the  boat  was  in  waiting.  By  the  general  movement 
among  the  indolent  menials,  and  the  profound  respect  with 
which  he  was  attended  by  the  master  of  the  ship  to  the 
gangway,  it  was  sufficiently  apparent  that,  notwithstanding 
his  youth,  it  was  this  gentleman  whose  presence  had  exacted 
those  arrangements  in  the  ship  which  have  been  mentioned. 
While  all  around  him,  however,  were  busy  in  facilitating 
the  entrance  of  the  officer  into  the  boat,  the  aged  stranger 
occupied  its  principal  seat,  with  an  air  of  deep  abstraction,  if 
not  of  cool  indifference.  A hint  from  the  pliant  Meriton, 
who  had  ventured  to  follow  his  master,  that  it  would  be 
more  agreeable  if  he  would  relinquish  his  place,  was  disre- 
garded, and  the  youth  took  a seat  by  the  side  of  the  old  man, 
with  a simplicity  of  manner  that  his  valet  inwardly  pro- 
nounced abundantly  degrading.  As  if  this  humiliation  were 
not  sufficient,  the  young  man,  perceiving  that  a general 
pause  had  succeeded  his  own  entrance,  turned  to  his  com- 
panion, and  courteously  inquired  if  he  were  ready  to  pro- 


%ionc l ^Lincoln 


7 


ceed.  A silent  wave  of  the  hand  was  the  reply,  when  the 
boat  shot  away  from  the  vessel,  leaving  the  ship  steering  for 
an  anchorage  in  Nantasket. 

The  measured  dash  of  the  oars  was  uninterrupted  by  any 
voice,  while,  stemming  the  tide,  they  pulled  laboriously  up 
among  the  islands  ; but  by  the  time  they  had  reached  the 
castle,  the  twilight  had  melted  into  the  softer  beams  from  a 
young  moon,  and,  the  surrounding  objects  becoming  more 
distinct,  the  stranger  commenced  talking  with  that  quick  and 
startling  vehemence  which  seemed  his  natural  manner.  He 
spoke  of  the  localities  with  the  vehemence  and  fondness  of 
an  enthusiast,  and  with  the  familiarity  of  one  who  had  long 
known  their  beauties.  His  rapid  utterance,  however,  ceased 
as  they  approached  the  naked  wharves,  and  he  sunk  back 
gloomily  in  the  boat,  as  if  unwilling  to  trust  his  voice  on  the 
subject  of  his  country’s  wrongs.  Thus  left  to  his  own 
thoughts,  the  youth  gazed  with  eager  interest  at  the  long 
ranges  of  buildings,  which  were  now  clearly  visible  to  the 
eye,  though  with  softer  colors  and  more  gloomy  shadows. 
A few  neglected  and  dismantled  ships  were  lying  at  different 
points  ; but  the  hum  of  business,  the  forests  of  masts,  and  the 
rattling  of  wheels,  which  at  that  early  hour  should  have 
distinguished  the  great  mart  of  the  colonies,  were  wanting. 
In  their 'places  were  to  be  heard,  at  intervals,  the  sudden 
bursts  of  distant,  martial  music,  the  riotous  merriment  of  the 
soldiery  who  frequented  the  taverns  at  the  water’s  edge,  or 
the  sullen  challenges  of  the  sentinels  from  the  vessels  of  war, 
as  they  vexed  the  progress  of  the  few  boats  which  the  in- 
habitants still  used  in  their  ordinary  pursuits. 

“ Here,  indeed,  is  a change  ! ” the  young  officer  exclaimed, 
as  they  glided  swiftly  along  this  desolate  scene  ; “ even  my 
recollections,  young  and  fading  as  they  are,  recall  the  differ- 
ence.” 

The  stranger  made  no  reply,  but  a smile  of  singular  mean- 
ing gleamed  across  his  wan  features,  imparting,  by  the  moon- 
light, to  their  remarkable  expression,  a character  of  additional 
wildness.  The  officer  was  again  silent,  nor  did  either  speak 
until  the  boat,  having  shot  by  the  end  of  the  long  wharf, 
across  whose  naked  boundaries  a sentinel  was  pacing  his 


8 


Xionel  Xincoln 


measured  path,  inclined  more  to  the  shore,  and  soon  reached 
the  place  of  its  destination. 

Whatever  might  have  been  the  respective  feelings  of  the 
two  passengers,  at  having  thus  reached  in  safety  the  object 
of  their  tiresome  and  protracted  voyage,  they  were  not  ex- 
pressed in  language.  The  old  man  bared  his  silver  locks, 
and,  concealing  his  face  with  his  hat,  stood  as  if  in  deep 
mental  thanksgiving  at  the  termination  of  his  toil,  while  his 
more  youthful  companion  trod  the  wharf  on  which  they 
landed  with  the  air  of  a man  whose  emotions  were  too  en- 
grossing for  the  ordinary  use  of  words. 

“ Here  we  must  part,  sir,”  the  officer  at  length  said  ; “ but 
I trust  the  acquaintance,  which  has  been  thus  accidentally 
formed  between  us,  is  not  to  be  forgotten  now  there  is  an  end 
to  our  common  privations.” 

” It  is  not  in  the  power  of  a man  whose  days,  like  mine, 
are  numbered,”  returned  the  stranger,  “ to  mock  the  liber- 
ality of  his  God,  by  any  vain  promises  that  must  depend  on 
time  for  their  fulfilment.  I am  one,  young  gentleman,  who 
has  returned  from  a sad,  sad  pilgrimage,  in  the  other  hemi- 
sphere, to  lay  his  bones  in  this,  his  native  land  ; but  should 
many  hours  be  granted  me,  you  will  hear  further  of  the 
man  whom  your  courtesy  and  kindness  have  so  greatly 
obliged.” 

The  officer  was  sensibly  affected  by  the  softened  but 
solemn  manner  of  his  companion,  and  pressed  his  wasted 
hand  fervently  as  he  answered, — 

“ Do  ; I ask  it  as  a singular  favor  ; I know  not  why,  but 
you  have  obtained  a command  of  my  feelings  that  no  other 
being  ever  yet  possessed  ; and  yet — ’t  is  a mystery,  ’t  is  like 
a dream  ! I feel  that  I not  only  venerate,  but  love  you.” 
The  old  man  stepped  back,  and  held  the  youth  at  the 
length  of  his  arm  for  a moment,  while  he  fastened  on  him  a 
look  of  glowing  interest,  and  then,  raising  his  hand  slowly, 
he  pointed  impressively  upward,  and  said, — 

“ ’T  is  from  heaven,  and  for  God’s  own  purposes  ; smother 
not  the  sentiment,  boy,  but  cherish  it  in  }^our  heart’s  core  ! ” 
The  reply  of  the  youth  was  interrupted  by  sudden  and 
violent  shrieks,  that  burst  rudely  on  the  stillness  of  the  place. 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


9 


chilling  the  very  blood  of  those  who  heard  them,  with  their 
piteousness.  The  quick  and  severe  blows  of  a lash  were 
blended  with  the  exclamations  of  the  sufferer ; and  rude 
oaths,  with  hoarse  execrations,  from  various  voices,  were 
united  in  the  uproar,  which  appeared  to  be  at  no  great 
distance.  By  a common  impulse,  the  whole  party  broke 
away  from  the  spot,  and  moved  rapidly  up  the  wharf  in  the 
direction  of  the  sounds.  As  they  approached  the  buildings, 
a group  was  seen  collected  around  the  man,  who  thus  broke 
the  charm  of  the  evening  by  his  cries,  interrupting  his  wail- 
ings with  their  ribaldry,  and  encouraging  his  tormentors  to 
proceed. 

“ Mercy,  merc}^,  for  the  sake  of  the  blessed  God,  have 
mercy,  and  don’t  kill  Job!”  again  shrieked  the  sufferer; 
“ Job  will  run  your  arr’nds  ! Job  is  half-witted  ! Mercy  on 
poor  Job  ! O ! you  make  his  flesh  creep  ! ” 

“ I ’ll  cut  the  heart  from  the  mutinous  knave,”  interrupted 
a hoarse,  angry  voice.  ‘ 4 To  refuse  to  drink  the  health  of 
his  majesty  ! ” 

“ Job  does  wish  him  good  health — Job  loves  the  king — - 
only  Job  don’t  love  rum.” 

The  officer  had  approached  so  nigh  as  to  perceive  that  the 
whole  scene  was  one  of  disorder  and  abuse,  and  pushing 
aside  the  crowd  of  excited  and  deriding  soldiers,  who  com- 
posed the  throng,  he  broke  at  once  into  the  centre  of  the 
circle. 


CHAPTER  II. 

“They ’ll  have  me  whipped  for  speaking; 

Thou  ’It  have  me  whipped  for  lying ; 

And  sometimes  I’m  whipped  for  holding  my  peace. 

I had  rather  be  any  kind  of  a thing 
Than  a fool.” 

King  Lear . 

*s  "X  THAT  means  this  outcry  ?”  demanded  the 
\ /\  / young  man,  arresting  the  arm  of  an  in- 

V V furiated  soldier,  who  was  inflicting  the 

blows;  “by  what  authority  is  this  man 

thus  abused  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ By  what  authority  dare  you  to  lay  hands  on  a British 
grenadier  ? ’ ' cried  the  fellow,  turning  in  his  fury,  and  rais- 
ing his  lash  against  the  supposed  townsman.  But,  when,  as 
the  officer  stepped  aside  to  avoid  the  threatened  indignity, 
the  light  of  the  moon  fell  full  upon  his  glittering  dress, 
through  the  opening  folds  of  his  cloak,  the  arm  of  the  bru- 
tal soldier  was  held  suspended  in  air,  with  the  surprise  of 
the  discovery. 

“Answer,  I bid  you,”  continued  the  young  officer,  his 
frame  shaking  with  passion  ; 4 ‘ why  is  this  man  tormented, 
and  of  what  regiment  are  ye  ? ” 

“We  belong  to  the  grenadiers  of  the  brave  47th,  your 
honor,”  returned  one  of  the  bystanders,  in  a humble,  depre- 
cating tone,  “ and  we  was  just  polishing  this  'ere  natural, 
because  as  he  refuses  to  drink  the  health  of  his  majesty.” 

“ He 's  a scornful  sinner,  that  don't  fear  his  Maker,”  cried 
the  man  in  duress,  eagerly  bending  his  face,  down  which 
big  tears  were  rolling,  towards  his  protector.  “Job  loves 
the  king,  but  Job  don't  love  rum  ! ” 

10 


Xlonel  ^Lincoln 


II 


The  officer  turned  away  from  the  cruel  spectacle,  as  he 
bid  the  men  untie  their  prisoner.  Knives  and  fingers  were 
instantly  put  in  requisition,  and  the  man  was  liberated, 
and  suffered  to  resume  his  clothes.  During  this  operation, 
the  tumult  and  bustle,  which  had  so  recently  distinguished 
the  riotous  scene,  were  succeeded  by  a stillness  that  rendered 
the  hard  breathing  of  the  sufferer  painfully  audible. 

4 ‘Now,  sirs,  you  heroes  of  the  47th  !”  said  the  young 
man,  when  the  victim  of  their  rage  was  again  clad,  “ know 
you  this  button  ? ’ ’ The  soldier  to  whom  this  question  was 
more  particularly  addressed,  gazed  at  the  extended  arm, 
and,  to  his  vast  discomfiture,  he  beheld  the  magical  number 
of  his  own  regiment  reposing  on  the  well-known  white 
facings  that  decorated  the  rich  scarlet  of  the  vestment.  No 
one  presumed  to  answer  this  appeal,  and  after  an  impressive 
silence  of  a few  moments,  he  continued, — 

“You  are  noble  supporters  of  the  well-earned  fame  of 
‘ Wolfe’s  own  ! ’ fit  successors  to  the  gallant  men  who  con- 
quered under  the  walls  of  Quebec  ! Away  with  3^  ! to- 
morrow it  shall  be  looked  to.” 

“I  hope  your  honor  will  remember  he  refused  his  maj- 
esty’s health.  I’m  sure,  sir,  that  if  Colonel  Nesbitt  was 
here  himself — ” 

“ Dog  ! do  you  dare  to  hesitate  ! go,  while  you  have  per- 
mission to  depart.  ’ ’ 

The  disconcerted  soldiery,  whose  turbulence  had  thus 
vanished  as  if  by  enchantment  before  the  frown  of  their 
superior,  slunk  away  in  a body,  a few  of  the  older  men 
whispering  to  their  comrades  the  name  of  the  officer  who 
had  thus  unexpectedly  appeared  in  the  midst  of  them.  The 
angry  eye  of  the  young  soldier  followed  their  retiring  forms, 
while  a man  of  them  was  visible ; after  which,  turning  to 
an  elderly  citizen,  who,  supported  on  a crutch,  had  been  a 
spectator  of  the  scene,  he  asked, — 

“Know  you  the  cause  of  the  cruel  treatment  this  poor 
man  has  received  ; or  what  in  any  manner  has  led  to  the 
violence  ? ” 

“The  boy  is  weak,”  returned  the  cripple;  “quite  an 
innocent,  who  knows  but  little  good,  but  does  no  harm. 


12 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


The  soldiers  have  been  carousing  in  yonder  dram-shop, 
and  they  often  get  the  poor  lad  in  with  them,  and  sport 
with  his  infirmity.  If  these  sorts  of  doings  ain’t  checked,  I 
fear  much  trouble  will  grow  out  of  them  ! Hard  laws  from 
t’  other  side  of  the  water,  and  tarring  and  feathering  on 
this,  with  gentlemen  like  Colonel  Nesbitt  at  their  head, 
will — ’ ’ 

“It is  wisest  for  us,  my  friend,  to  pursue  this  subject  no 
further,”  interrupted  the  officer.  “I  belong  myself  to 
‘Wolfe’s  own,’  and  will  endeavor  to  see  justice  done  in  the 
matter;  as  you  will  credit  when  I tell  you  that  I am  a 
Boston  boy.  But,  though  a native,  a long  absence  has 
obliterated  the  marks  of  the  town  from  my  memory  ; and  I 
am  at  a loss  to  thread  these  crooked  streets.  Know  you 
the  dwelling  of  Mrs.  Techmere?  ” 

“The  house  is  well  known  to  all  in  Boston,”  returned  the 
cripple,  in  a voice  sensibly  altered  by  the  information  that 
he  was  speaking  to  a townsman.  “Job,  here,  does  but 
little  else  than  run  of  errands,  and  he  will  show  you  the 
way,  out  of  gratitude  ; won’t  you,  Job  ? ” 

The  idiot, — for  the  vacant  eye  and  unmeaning,  boyish 
countenance  of  the  young  man  who  had  just  been  liberated, 
but  too  plainly  indicated  that  he  was  to  be  included  in  that 
miserable  class  of  human  beings, — answered  with  a caution 
and  reluctance  that  were  a little  remarkable,  considering  the 
recent  circumstances. 

“ Ma’am  Techmere’s  ! O ! yes,  Job  knows  the  way,  and 
could  go  there  blindfolded,  if — if — ’ ’ 

“If  what,  you  simpleton?”  exclaimed  the  zealous  crip- 
ple. 

“Why,  if  ’twas  daylight.” 

‘ ‘ Blindfolded,  and  daylight  ! do  but  hear  the  silly  child  ! 
Come,  Job,  you  must  take  this  gentleman  to  Tremont 
Street,  without  further  words.  ’Tis  but  just  sundown,  bo}r, 
and  you  can  go  there  and  be  home  in  your  bed  before  the 
Old  South  strikes  eight ! ’ ’ 

“ Yes  ; that  all  depends  on  which  way  you  go,”  returned 
the  reluctant  changeling.  “Now,  I know,  neighbor  Hop- 
per, 3^011  couldn’t  go  to  Ma’am  Techmere’s  in  an  hour,  if 


%ionc l Xincoltt 


13 


you  went  along  Lynn  Street,  and  so  along  Prince  Street, 
and  back  through  Snow  Hill ; and  especially  if  you  should 
stop  any  time  to  look  at  the  graves  on  Copp’s.” 

“ Pshaw  ! the  fool  is  in  one  of  his  sulks  now,  with  his 
Copp’s  Hill,  and  the  graves  ! ” interrupted  the  cripple,  whose 
heart  had  warmed  to  his  youthful  townsman,  and  who  would 
have  volunteered  to  show  the  way  himself,  had  his  infirmi- 
ties permitted  the  exertion.  “The  gentleman  must  call  the 
grenadiers  back,  to  bring  the  child  to  reason.” 

“ ’T  is  quite  unnecessary  to  be  harsh  with  the  unfortunate 
lad,”  said  the  young  soldier  ; “ my  recollections  will  proba- 
bly aid  me  as  I advance  ; and  should  they  not,  I can  inquire 
of  any  passenger  I meet.  ’ ’ 

“If  Boston  was  what  Boston  has  been,  you  might  ask 
such  a question  of  a civil  inhabitant,  at  any  corner, 5 ’ said  the 
cripple;  “but  it  ’s  rare  to  see  many  of  our  people  in  the 
streets  at  this  hour,  since  the  massacre.  Besides,  it  is  Sat- 
urday night,  you  know  ; a fit  time  for  these  rioters  to  choose 
for  their  revelries  ! For  that  matter,  the  soldiers  have  grown 
more  insolent  than  ever,  since  they  have  met  that  disappoint- 
ment about  the  cannon  down  at  Salem  ; but  I need  n’t  tell 
such  as  you  what  the  soldiers  are  when  they  get  a little 
savage.” 

“ I know  my  comrades  but  indifferently  well,  if  their  con- 
duct to-night  be  any  specimen  of  their  ordinary  demeanor, 
sir,  ’ ’ returned  the  officer  ; ‘ ‘ but  follow,  Meriton  ; I appre- 
hend no  great  difficulty  in  our  path.” 

The  pliant  valet  lifted  the  cloak-bag  he  carried,  from  the 
ground,  and  they  were  about  to  proceed,  when  the  natural 
edged  himself  in  a sidelong,  slovenly  manner,  nigher  to  the 
gentleman,  and  looked  earnestly  up  in  his  face  for  a moment, 
where  he  seemed  to  be  gathering  confidence  to  say,  “Job 
will  show  the  officer  Ma’am  Lechmere’s,  if  the  officer  won’t 
let  the  grannies  catch  Job  afore  he  gets  off  the  North  End 
ag’in.” 

“Ah  ! ” said  the  young  man,  laughing,  “there  is  some- 
thing of  the  cunning  of  a fool  in  that  arrangement.  Well, 
I accept  the  conditions  ; but  beware  how  you  take  me  to 
contemplate  the  graves  by  moonlight,  or  I shall  deliver  you 


14 


Xiottel  Xtncoln 


not  only  to  the  grannies,  but  to  the  light  infantry,  artillery, 
and  all.” 

With  this  good-natured  threat,  the  officer  followed  his 
nimble  conductor,  after  taking  a friendly  leave  of  the  oblig- 
ing cripple,  who  continued  his  admonitions  to  the  natural, 
not  to  wander  from  the  direct  route,  while  the  sounds  of  his 
voice  were  audible  to  the  retiring  party.  The  progress  of 
his  guide  was  so  rapid  as  to  require  the  young  officer  to  con- 
fine his  survey  of  the  narrow  and  crooked  streets  through 
which  they  passed,  to  extremely  hasty  and  imperfect  glances. 
No  very  minute  observation,  however,  was  necessary  to  per- 
ceive that  he  was  led  along  one  of  the  most  filthy  and  infe- 
rior sections  of  the  town ; and  where,  notwithstanding  his 
efforts,  he  found  it  impossible  to  recall  a single  feature  of 
his  native  place  to  his  remembrance.  The  complaints  of 
Meriton,  who  followed  close  at  the  heels  of  his  master,  were 
loud  and  frequent,  until  the  gentleman,  a little  doubting  the 
sincerity  of  his  intractable  conductor,  exclaimed, — 

“ Have  you  nothing  better  than  this  to  show  a townsman, 
who  has  been  absent  seventeen  years,  on  his  return  ? Pray 
let  us  go  through  some  better  streets  than  this,  if  any  there 
are  in  Boston  which  can  be  called  better.  ’ ’ 

The  lad  stopped  short,  and  looked  up  in  the  face  of  the 
speaker,  for  an  instant,  with  an  air  of  undisguised  amaze- 
ment, and  then,  without  replying,  he  changed  the  direction 
of  his  route,  and  after  one  or  two  more  deviations  in  his 
path,  suddenly  turning  again,  he  glided  up  an  alley,  so  nar- 
row that  the  passenger  might  touch  the  buildings  on  either 
side  of  him.  The  officer  hesitated  an  instant  to  enter  this 
dark  and  crooked  passage,  but  perceiving  that  his  guide  was 
already  hid  by  a bend  in  the  houses,  he  quickened  his  steps, 
and  immediately  regained  the  ground  he  had  lost.  They 
soon  emerged  from  the  obscurity  of  the  place,  and  issued  on 
a street  of  greater  width. 

“ There!”  said  Job,  triumphantly,  when  they  had  ef- 
fected this  gloomy  passage,  “does  the  king  live  in  so 
crooked  and  narrow  a street  as  that  ? ’ ’ 

“His  majesty  must  yield  the  point  in  your  favor,”  re- 
turned the  officer. 


Xionel  Xlncoln 


*s 


“ Ma’am  Techmere  is  a grand  lady  ! ” continued  the  lad, 
seemingly  following  the  current  of  his  own  fanciful  con- 
ceits, “and  she  would  n’t  live  in  that  alley  for  the  world, 
though  it  is  narrow,  like  the  road  to  heaven,  as  old  Nab 
says ; I suppose  they  call  it  after  the  Methodies  for  that 
reason.” 

‘ ‘ I have  heard  the  road  you  mention  termed  narrow,  cer- 
tainly, but  it  is  also  called  strait ,”  returned  the  officer,  a lit- 
tle amused  with  the  humor  of  the  lad  ; ‘ ‘ but  forward,  the 
time  is  slipping  away,  and  we  loiter.” 

Again  Job  turned,  and  moving  onward,  he  led  the  way, 
with  swift  steps,  along  another  narrow  and  crooked  path, 
which,  however,  better  deserved  the  name  of  a street,  under 
the  projecting  stories  of  the  wooden  buildings  which  lined 
its  sides.  After  following  the  irregular  windings  of  theit 
route  for  some  distance,  they  entered  a triangular  area  of 
a few  rods  in  extent,  where  Job,  disregarding  the  use  of  the 
narrow  walk,  advanced  directly  into  the  centre  of  the  open 
space.  Here  he  stopped  once  more,  and  turning  his  va- 
cant face  with  an  air  of  much  seriousness  towards  a build- 
ing which  composed  one  side  of  the  triangle,  he  said,  with  a 
voice  that  expressed  his  own  deep  admiration, — 

“There — that  ’s  the  Old  North  did  you  ever  see  such 
a meetin’us’  afore?  does  the  king  worship  God  in  such  a 
temple  ? ’ ’ 

The  officer  did  not  chide  the  idle  liberties  of  the  fool,  for 
in  the  antiquated  and  quiet  architecture  of  the  wooden  edi- 
fice, he  recognized  one  of  those  early  efforts  of  the  simple, 
puritan  builders,  whose  rude  tastes  have  been  transmitted 
to  their  posterity  with  so  many  deviations  in  the  style  of 
the  same  school,  but  so  little  of  improvement.  Blended 
with  these  considerations,  were  the  dawnings  of  revived  rec- 
ollections ; and  he  smiled,  as  he  recalled  the  time  when  he 
also  used  to  look  up  at  the  building  with  feelings  some- 
what allied  to  the  profound  admiration  of  the  idiot.  Job 
watched  his  countenance  narrowly,  and  easily  mistaking  its 
expression,  he  extended  his  arm  towards  one  of  the  narrow- 
est of  the  avenues  that  entered  the  area,  where  stood  a few 
houses  of  more  than  common  pretension. 


i6 


Xtonel  Lincoln 


4 ‘And  there  ag’in  ! ” he  continued  ; “ there  ’s  places  for 
you  ! stingy  Tommy  lived  in  the  one  with  the  pile-axters, 
and  the  flowers  hanging  to  their  tops  ; and  see  the  crowns 
on  them,  too  ! stingy  Tommy  loved  crowns,  they  say  ; but 
Province’ us’  was  n’t  good  enough  for  him,  and  he  lived  here 
— now  they  say  he  lives  in  one  of  the  king’s  cupboards  ! ” 

‘ ‘ And  who  was  stingy  Tommy  ? and  what  right  had  he 
to  dwell  in  Province  House,  if  he  would?  ” 

“What  right  has  any  governor  to  live  in  Province’  us’  ? 
because  it ’s  the  king’s,  though  the  people  paid  for  it ! ” 

“ Pray,  sir,  excuse  me,”  said  Meriton,  from  behind  ; “but 
do  the  Americans  usually  call  their  governors  stingy  Tom- 
mies ? ’ ’ 

The  officer  turned  his  head  at  this  vapid  question  from 
his  valet,  and  perceived  that  he  had  been  accompanied  thus 
far  by  the  aged  stranger,  who  stood  at  his  elbow,  leaning 
on  his  staff,  studying  with  close  attention  the  late  dwelling 
of  Hutchinson,  while  the  light  of  the  moon  fell,  unob- 
structed, on  the  deep  lines  of  his  haggard  face.  During  the 
first  surprise  of  this  discovery  he  forgot  to  reply,  and  Job 
took  the  vindication  of  his  language  into  his  own  hands. 

‘ ‘ To  be  sure  they  do — they  call  people  by  their  right 
names,”  he  said.  “Insygn  Peck  is  called  Insygn  Peck; 
and  you  call  Deacon  Winslow  anything  but  Deacon  Wins- 
low, and  see  what  a look  he  ’ll  give  you  ! and  I am  Job 
Pray,  so  called;  and  why  shouldn’t  a governor  be  called 
stingy  Tommy,  if  he  is  a stingy  Tommy  ? ’ ’ 

“ Be  careful  how  you  speak  lightly  of  the  king’s  repre- 
sentative,” said  the  young  officer,  raising  his  light  cane  with 
the  affectation  of  correcting  the  changeling.  “ Forget  you 
that  I am  a soldier?  ” 

The  idiot  shrunk  back  a little,  timidly,  and  then  leering 
from  under  his  sunken  brow,  he  answered,— 

“ I heard  you  say  you  were  a Boston  boy.” 

The  gentleman  was  about  to  make  a playful  reply,  when 
the  aged  stranger  passed  swiftly  before  him,  and  took  his 
stand  at  the  side  of  the  lad  with  a manner  so  remarkable  for 
its  earnestness  that  it  entirely  changed  the  current  of  his 
thoughts. 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


17 


“The  young  man  knows  the  ties  of  blood  and  country,’’ 
the  stranger  muttered  ; ‘ ‘ and  I honor  him  ! ’ ’ 

It  might  have  been  the  sudden  recollection  of  the  danger 
of  those  allusions,  which  the  officer  so  well  understood,  and 
to  which  his  accidental  association  with  the  singular  being 
who  uttered  them  had  begun  to  familiarize  his  ear,  that  in- 
duced the  youth  to  resume  his  walk,  silently,  and  in  deep 
thought,  along  the  street.  By  this  movement  he  escaped 
observing  the  cordial  grasp  of  the  hand  which  the  old  stran- 
ger bestowed  on  the  idiot,  while  he  muttered  a few  more 
terms  of  commendation.  Job  took  his  station  in  front,  and 
the  whole  party  moved  on  again,  though  with  less  rapid 
strides.  As  the  lad  advanced  deeper  into  the  town  he  evi- 
dently wavered  once  or  twice  in  his  choice  of  streets,  and 
the  officer  began  to  suspect  that  the  changeling  contemplated 
one  of  his  wild  circuits,  to  avoid  the  direct  route  to  a house 
that  he  manifestly  approached  with  great  reluctance.  Once 
or  twice  the  young  soldier  looked  about  him,  intending  to 
inquire  the  direction  of  the  first  passenger  he  might  see  ; but 
the  quiet  of  deep  night  already  pervaded  the  place,  and  not 
an  individual,  but  those  who  accompanied  him,  appeared  in 
the  long  ranges  of  streets  they  had  passed.  The  air  of  the 
guide  was  becoming  so  dogged  and  hesitating  that  his  fol- 
lower had  just  determined  to  make  an  application  at  one 
of  the  doors,  when  they  emerged  from  a dark,  dirty,  and 
gloomy  street  on  an  open  space  of  much  greater  extent  than 
the  one  they  had  so  recently  left.  Passing  under  the  walls 
of  a blackened  dwelling,  Job  led  the  way  to  the  centre  of  a 
swinging  bridge,  which  was  thrown  across  an  inlet  from  the 
harbor,  that  extended  a short  distance  into  the  area,  forming 
a shallow  dock.  Here  he  took  his  stand,  and  allowed  the 
view  of  the  surrounding  objects  to  work  its  own  effect  on 
those  he  had  conducted  thither.  The  square  was  composed 
of  rows  of  low,  gloomy,  and  irregular  houses,  most  of  which 
had  the  appearance  of  being  but  little  used.  Stretching 
from  the  end  of  the  basin,  and  a little  on  one  side,  a long, 
narrow  edifice,  ornamented  with  pilasters,  perforated  with 
arched  windows,  and  surmounted  by  a humble  cupola, 
reared  its  walls  of  brick  under  the  light  of  the  moon.  The 


lionet  lincotn 


18 


story  which  held  the  rows  of  silent,  glistening  windows,  was 
supported  on  abutments  and  arches  of  the  same  material, 
through  the  narrow  vista  of  which  were  to  be  seen  the 
shambles  of  the  common  market-place.  Heavy  cornices  of 
stone  were  laid  above  and  beneath  the  pilasters,  and  some- 
thing more  than  the  unskilful  architecture  of  the  dwelling- 
houses  they  had  passed  was  affected  throughout  the  whole 
structure.  While  the  officer  gazed  at  this  scene  the  idiot 
watched  his  countenance  with  a keenness  exceeding  his 
usual  observation,  until,  impatient  at  hearing  no  words  of 
pleasure  or  of  recognition,  he  exclaimed, — 

“ If  you  don’t  know  Funnel  Hall,  you  are  no  Boston  boy  ! ” 
“ But  I do  know  Faneuil  Hall,  and  I am  a Boston  boy,” 
returned  the  amused  gentleman.  “The  place  begins  to 
freshen  on  my  memory,  and  I now  recall  the  scenes  of  my 
childhood.” 

“ This,  then,”  said  the  aged  stranger,  “ is  the  spot  where 
liberty  has  found  so  many  bold  advocates  ! ” 

“ It  would  do  the  king’s  heart  good  to  hear  the  people 
talk  in  old  Funnel,  sometimes,”  said  Job.  “ I was  on  the 
cornishes,  and  looked  into  the  winders,  the  last  town-meet- 
in’ -da’,  and  if  there  was  soldiers  on  the  common,  there  was 
them  in  the  hall  that  did  n’t  care  for  them  ! ” 

“All  this  is  very  amusing,  no  doubt,”  said  the  officer, 
gravely,  “but  it  does  not  advance  me  a foot  on  my  way  to 
Mrs.  Techmere’s.” 

“ It  is  also  instructing,  ’ ’ exclaimed  the  stranger  ; ‘ ‘ go  on, 
child  ; I love  to  hear  his  simple  feelings  thus  expressed  ; 
they  indicate  the  state  of  the  public  mind.” 

“ Why,”  said  Job,  “ they  were  plain-spoken,  that ’s  all ; 
and  it  would  be  better  for  the  king  to  come  over  and  hear 
them  ; it  would  pull  down  his  pride,  and  make  him  pity  the 
people,  and  then  he  would  n’t  think  of  shutting  up  Boston 
harbor.  Suppose  he  should  stop  the  water  from  coming  in 
by  the  Narrows,  why,  we  should  get  it  by  Broad  Sound  ! 
and  if  it  did  n’t  come  by  Broad  Sound,  it  would  by  Nantas- 
ket  ! He  need  n’t  think  that  the  Boston  folks  are  so  dumb 
as  to  be  cheated  out  of  God’s  water  by  acts  of  Parliament, 
while  old  Funnel  stands  in  the  Dock  Square  ! ” 


Xfonel  ^Lincoln 


!9 


“Sirrah  !”  exclaimed  the  officer,  a little  angrily,  “we 
have  already  loitered  until  the  clocks  are  striking  eight.” 
The  idiot  lost  his  animation,  and  lowered  in  his  looks 
again,  as  he  answered, — 

“Well,  I told  neighbor  Hopper  there  was  more  ways  to 
Ma’am  Eechmere’s  than  straight  forward  ; but  everybody 
knows  Job’s  business  better  than  Job  himself.  Now  you 
make  me  forget  the  road ; let  us  go  in  and  ask  old  Nab ; 
she  knows  the  way  too  well ! ’ ’ 

“ Old  Nab  ! you  wilful  dolt ! who  is  Nab,  and  what  have 
I to  do  with  any  but  yourself?  ” 

“ Everybody  in  Boston  knows  Abigail  Pray.” 

“ What  of  her?  ” asked  the  startling  voice  of  the  stran- 
ger ; “what  of  Abigail  Pray,  boy  ? is  she  not  honest  ? ” 
“Yes,  as  poverty  can  make  her,”  returned  the  natural, 
gloomily  ; ‘ ‘ now  the  king  has  said  there  shall  be  no  goods 
but  tea  sent  to  Boston,  and  the  people  won’t  have  the  bohea, 
it ’s  easy  living  rent  free.  Nab  keeps  her  huckster  stuff  in 
the  old  ware’ us’,  and  a good  place  it  is,  too.  Job  and  his 
mother  have  each  a room  to  sleep  in,  and  they  say  the  king 
and  queen  have  n’t  more  ! ” 

While  he  was  speaking,  the  eyes  of  his  listeners  were 
drawn  by  his  gestures  towards  the  singular  edifice  to  which 
he  alluded.  Tike  most  of  the  others  adjacent  to  the  square, 
it  was  low,  old,  dirty,  and  dark.  Its  shape  was  triangular, 
a street  bounding  it  on  each  side,  and  its  extremities  were 
flanked  by  as  many  low  hexagonal  towers,  which  termi- 
nated, like  the  main  building  itself,  in  high  pointed  roofs, 
tiled,  and  capped  with  rude  ornaments.  Tong  ranges  of 
small  windows  were  to  be  seen  in  the  dusky  walls,  through 
one  of  which  the  light  of  a solitary  candle  was  glimmering, 
the  only  indication  of  the  presence  of  life  about  the  silent 
and  gloomy  building. 

“Nab  knows  Ma’am  Eechmere  better  than  Job,”  con- 
tinued the  idiot,  after  a moment’s  pause,  “and  she  will 
know  whether  Ma’am  Eechmere  will  have  Job  whipped  for 
bringing  company  on  Saturday  night,  though  they  say  she ’s 
so  full  of  scoffery  as  to  talk,  drink  tea,  and  laugh  on  that 
night,  just  the  same  as  any  other  time.” 


20 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


“I  will  pledge  myself  to  her  courteous  treatment,'’  the 
officer  replied,  beginning  to  be  weary  of  the  fool’s  delay. 

“ Let  us  see  this  Abigail  Pray,”  cried  the  aged  stranger, 
suddenly  seizing  Job  by  the  arm,  and  leading  him,  with  a 
sort  of  irresistible  power,  towards  the  walls  of  the  building, 
through  one  of  the  low  doors  of  which  they  immediately 
disappeared. 

Thus  left  on  the  bridge,  with  his  valet,  the  young  officer 
hesitated  a single  instant  how  to  act ; but  yielding  to  the 
secret  and  powerful  interest  which  the  stranger  had  suc- 
ceeded in  throwing  around  all  his  movements  and  opinions, 
he  bade  Meriton  await  his  return,  and  followed  his  guide 
and  the  old  man  into  the  cheerless  habitation  of  the  former. 
On  passing  the  outer  door  he  found  himself  in  a spacious  but 
rude  apartment,  which,  from  its  appearance,  as  well  as  from 
the  few  articles  of  heavy  but  valueless  merchandise  it  now 
contained,  would  seem  to  have  been  used  once  as  a store- 
house. The  light  drew  his  steps  towards  a room  in  one  of 
the  towers,  where,  as  he  approached  its  open  door,  he  heard 
the  loud,  sharp  tones  of  a woman’s  voice  exclaiming, — 

“Where  have  you  been,  graceless,  this  Saturday  night? 
tagging  at  the  heels  of  the  soldiers,  or  gazing  at  the  men-of- 
war,  with  their  ungodly  fashions  of  music  and  revelry  at 
such  a time,  I dare  to  say  ! and  you  knew  that  a ship  was 
in  the  bay,  and  that  Madam  Lechmere  had  desired  me  to 
send  her  the  first  notice  of  its  arrival.  Here  have  I been 
waiting  for  you  to  go  up  to  Tremont  Street  since  sundown, 
with  the  news,  and  you  are  out  of  call, — you,  that  know  so 
well  who  it  is  she  expects  ! ’ ’ 

“Don’t  be  cross  to  Job,  mother,  for  the  grannies  have 
been  cutting  his  back  with  cords  till  the  blood  runs  ! Ma’am 
Lechmere  ! I do  believe,  mother,  that  Ma’am  Lechmere  has 
moved  ; for  I ’ve  been  trying  to  find  her  house  this  hour,  be- 
cause there ’s  a gentleman  who  landed  from  the  ship  wanted 
Job  to  show  him  the  way.” 

“ What  means  the  ignorant  boy  ? ” exclaimed  his  mother. 

“ He  alludes  to  me,”  said  the  officer,  entering  the  apart- 
ment ; “I  am  the  person,  if  any,  expected  by  Mrs.  Lech- 
mere, and  have  just  landed  from  the  Avon,  of  Bristol ; but 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


21 


your  son  has  led  me  a circuitous  path,  indeed  ; at  one  time 
he  spoke  of  visiting  the  graves  on  Copp’s  Hill.” 

‘ ‘ Excuse  the  ignorant  and  witless  child,  sir, 5 ’ exclaimed* 
the  matron,  eying  the  young  man  keenly  through  her  spec- 
tacles ; ‘ ‘ he  knows  the  way  as  well  as  to  his  own  bed,  but 
he  is  wilful  at  times.  This  will  be  a joyful  night  in  Tre- 
mont  Street  ! So  handsome,  and  so  stately,  too  ! Excuse 
me,  young  gentleman,”  she  added,  raising  the  candle  to 
his  features  with  an  evident  unconsciousness  of  the  act, 

‘ ‘ he  has  the  sweet  smile  of  the  mother,  and  the  terrible  eye 
of  his  father  ! God  forgive  us  all  our  sins,  and  make  us 
happier  in  another  world  than  in  this  place  of  evil  and 
wickedness!”  As  she  muttered  the  latter  words,  the  wo- 
man set  aside  her  candle  with  an  air  of  singular  agitation. 
Each  S3dlable,  notwithstanding  her  secret  intention,  was 
heard  by  the  officer,  across  whose  countenance  there 
passed  a sudden  gloom  that  doubled  its  sad  expression.  He 
however  said, — 

“You  know  me  and  my  family,  then  ? ” 

“ I was  at  your  birth,  young  gentleman,  and  a joyful  birth 
it  was  ! but  Madam  Eechmere  waits  for  the  news,  and  my 
unfortunate  child  shall  speedily  conduct  you  to  her  door ; 
she  will  tell  you  all  that  it  is  proper  to  know.  Job,  3^011 
Job,  where  are  you  getting  to,  in  that  corner?  take  your 
hat,  and  show  the  gentleman  to  Tremont  Street  directly ; 
3^ou  know,  my  son,  you  love  to  go  to  Madam  Eechmere’ s.” 
“Job  would  never  go,  if  Job  could  help  it,”  muttered  the 
sullen  boy;  “and  if  Nab  had  never  gone,  ’t would  have 
been  better  for  her  soul.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Do  you  dare,  disrespectful  viper  ! ’ ’ exclaimed  the  angry 
quean,  seizing,  in  the  violence  of  her  fury,  the  tongs,  and 
threatening  the  head  of  her  stubborn  child. 

“ Woman,  peace  ! ” said  a voice  behind. 

The  dangerous  weapon  fell  from  the  nerveless  hand  of  the 
vixen,  and  the  hues  of  her  yellow  and  withered  countenance 
changed  to  the  whiteness  of  death.  She  stood  motionless 
for  near  a minute,  as  if  riveted  to  the  spot  by  a superhuman 
power,  before  she  succeeded  in  muttering,  “Who  speaks 
to  me  ? ’ ’ 


22 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


“It  is  I,”  returned  the  stranger,  advancing  from  the 
shadow  of  the  door  into  the  dim  light  of  the  candle;  “a 
man  who  has  numbered  ages,  and  who  knows  that  as  God 
loves  him,  so  is  he  bound  to  love  the  children  of  his  loins.’ ’ 
The  rigid  limbs  of  the  woman  lost  their  stability  in  a 
tremor  that  shook  every  fibre  in  her  body  ; she  sunk  in  her 
chair,  and  her  eyes  rolled  from  the  face  of  one  visitor  to  that 
of  the  other,  while  her  unsuccessful  efforts  to  utter,  denoted 
that  she  had  temporarily  lost  the  command  of  speech.  Job 
stole  to  the  side  of  the  stranger,  in  this  short  interval,  and 
looking  up  in  his  face  piteously,  he  said, — 

“ Don’t  hurt  old  Nab ; read  that  good  saying  to  her  out 
of  the  Bible,  and  she  ’ll  never  strike  Job  with  tongs  ag’in  ; 
will  you,  mother  ? See  her  cup,  where  she  hid  it  under  the 
towel,  when  you  came  in  ! Ma’am  Techmere  gives  her  the 
pi ’son  tea  to  drink,  and  then  Nab  is  never  so  good  to  Job  as 
Job  would  be  to  mother,  if  mother  was  half-witted,  and  Job 
was  old  Nab.” 

The  stranger  considered  the  moving  countenance  of  the 
boy,  while  he  pleaded  thus  earnestly  in  behalf  of  his  mother, 
with  marked  attention,  and  when  he  had  done,  he  stroked 
the  head  of  the  natural  compassionately,  and  said, — 

i i Poor,  imbecile  child  ! God  has  denied  the  most  precious 
of  his  gifts,  and  yet  his  Spirit  hovers  around  thee  ; for  thou 
canst  distinguish  between  austerity  and  kindness,  and  thou 
hast  learnt  to  know  good  from  evil.  Young  man,  see  you 
no  moral  in  this  dispensation?  nothing  which  says  that 
Providence  bestows  no  gift  in  vain  ; while  it  points  to  the 
difference  between  the  duty  that  is  fostered  by  indulgence, 
and  that  which  is  extorted  by  power  ? ’ ’ 

The  officer  avoided  the  ardent  looks  of  the  stranger,  and 
after  an  embarrassing  pause  of  a moment,  he  expressed  his 
readiness,  to  the  reviving  woman,  to  depart  on  his  way. 
The  matron,  whose  eye  had  never  ceased  to  dwell  on  the 
features  of  the  old  man,  since  her  faculties  were  restored, 
arose  slowly,  and  in  a feeble  voice  directed  her  son  to  show 
the  road  to  Tremont  Street.  She  had  acquired,  by  long 
practice,  a manner  that  never  failed  to  control,  when  neces- 
sary, the  wayward  humors  of  her  child,  and  on  the  present 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


23 


occasion,  the  unwonted  solemnity  imparted  to  her  voice  by 
deep  agitation,  aided  in  effecting  her  object.  Job  quietly 
arose  and  prepared  himself  to  comply.  The  manners  of 
the  whole  party  wore  a restraint,  which  implied  they  had 
touched  on  feelings  that  it  would  be  wiser  to  smother,  and 
the  separation  would  have  been  silent,  though  courteous,  on 
the  part  of  the  youth,  had  he  not  perceived  the  passage  still 
filled  by  the  motionless  form  of  the  stranger. 

“You  will  precede  me,  sir,”  he  said;  “the  hour  grows 
late,  and  you,  too,  may  need  a guide  to  find  your  dwelling.’ ’ 
“To  me  the  streets  of  Boston  have  long  been  familiar,” 
returned  the  old  man.  “ I have  noted  the  increase  of  the 
town  as  the  parent  notes  the  increasing  stature  of  his  child ; 
nor  is  my  love  for  it  less  than  paternal.  It  is  enough  that  I 
am  within  its  limits,  where  liberty  is  prized  as  the  greatest 
good  ; and  it  matters  not  under  what  roof  I lay  my  head  ; 
this  will  do  as  well  as  another.  ’ ’ 

“This!”  echoed  the  other,  glancing  his  eyes  over  the 
miserable  furniture,  and  scanning  the  air  of  poverty  that 
pervaded  the  place  ; t 4 why,  this  house  has  even  less  of 
comfort  than  the  ship  we  have  left ! ’ ’ 

4 4 It  has  enough  for  my  wants,  ’ ’ said  the  stranger,  seating 
himself  with  composure,  and  deliberately  placing  his  bundle 
by  his  side.  4 4 Go  you  to  your  palace  in  Tremont  Street ; it 
shall  be  my  care  that  we  meet  again.” 

The  officer  understood  the  character  of  his  companion  too 
well  to  hesitate,  and  bending  low,  he  quitted  the  apartment, 
leaving  the  other  leaning  his  head  on  his  cane,  in  absent 
musing,  while  the  amazed  matron  was  gazing  at  her  unex- 
pected guest  with  a wonder  that  was  not  unmingled  with 
dread. 


CHAPTER  III. 


“ From  silver  spouts  the  grateful  liquors  glide, 

While  China’s  earth  receives  the  smoking  tide ; 

At  once  they  gratify  their  scent  and  taste, 

And  frequent  cups  prolong  the  rich  repast.” 

Rape  of  the  Lock , 

^TjT^  HE  recollection  of  the  repeated  admonitions  of  his 
mother  served  to  keep  Job  to  his  purpose.  The 
M instant  the  officer  appeared,  he  held  his  wa}^ 
across  the  bridge,  and  after  proceeding  for  a short 
distance  farther  along  the  water’s  edge,  they  entered  a broad 
and  well-built  avenue,  which  lead  from  the  principal  wdiarf 
into  the  upper  parts  of  the  town.  Turning  up  this  street, 
the  lad  was  making  his  way,  with  great  earnestness,  when 
sounds  of  high  merriment  and  conviviality,  breaking  from 
an  opposite  building,  caught  his  attention,  and  induced  him 
to  pause. 

“ Remember  your  mother’s  injunction,”  said  the  officer  ; 
“ what  see  you  in  that  tavern  to  stare  at  ? ” 

“ ’Tis  the  British  Coffee  House,”'  said  Job,  shaking  his 
head;  “yes,  anybody  might  know  that  by  the  noise  they 
make  in’t  on  Saturday  night!  See  ! it’s  filled  now  with 
Eord  Boot’s  officers,  flaring  afore  the  windows,  just  like  so 
many  red  devils  ; but  to-morrow,  when  the  Old  South  bell 
rings,  they  ’ll  forget  their  Lord  and  Maker,  every  sinner 
among  them  ! ’ ’ 

“ Fellow  ! ” exclaimed  the  officer,  “ this  is  trespassing  too 
far  ; proceed  to  Tremont  Street,  or  leave  me,  that  I may,  at 
once,  procure  another  guide.” 

The  changeling  cast  a look  aside  at  the  angry  eye  of  the 


Xloitel  ^Lincoln 


25 


other,  and  then  turned  and  proceeded,  muttering  so  loud  as 
to  be  overheard, — 

“ Every  boy  that ’s  raised  in  Boston  knows  how  to  keep 
Saturday  night;  and  if  you’re  a Boston  boy,  you  should 
love  Boston  ways.” 

The  officer  did  not  reply,  and  as  they  now  proceeded  with 
great  diligence,  they  soon  passed  through  King  and  Queen 
Streets,  and  entered  that  of  Tremont.  At  a little  distance 
from  the  turning,  Job  stopped,  and  pointing  to  a building 
near  them,  he  said, — 

‘ 1 There  ; that  house  with  the  courtyard  afore  it ; and  the 
pile-axters,  and  the  grand-looking  door,  that ’s  Ma’am  Lech- 
mere’s  ; and  everybody  says  she ’s  a grand  lady ; but  I say 
it  is  a pity  she  is  n’t  a better  woman.” 

“ And  who  are  you,  that  ventures  thus  boldly  to  speak  of 
a lady  so  much  your  superior  ? ’ ’ 

“ I ! ” said  the  idiot,  looking  up  simply  into  the  face  of  his 
interrogator,  “ I am  Job  Pray,  so  called.” 

“ Well,  Job  Pray,  here  is  a crown  for  you.  The  next  time 
you  act  as  guide,  keep  more  to  your  business.  I tell  you, 
lad,  I offer  a crown.” 

“ Job  don’t  love  crowns  ; they  say  the  king  wears  a crown, 
and  it  makes  him  flaunty  and  proud  like.” 

‘ ‘ The  disaffection  must  have  spread  itself  wide  indeed,  if 
such  as  he  refuse  silver,  rather  than  offend  their  principles  ! ” 
muttered  the  officer  to  himself.  ‘ ‘ Here  then  is  half  a 
guinea,  if  you  like  gold  better.” 

The  natural  continued  kicking  a stone  about  with  his 
toes,  without  taking  his  hands  from  his  pockets  where  he 
wore  them  ordinarily,  with  a sort  of  idle  air,  as  he  peered 
from  under  his  slouched  hat  at  this  renewed  offer,  answer- 
ing,— 

“You  would  n’t  let  the  grannies  whip  Job,  and  Job  won’t 
take  your  money.” 

“Well,  boy,  there  is  more  of  gratitude  in  that  than  a 
wiser  man  would  always  feel  ! Come,  Meriton,  I shall  meet 
the  poor  fellow  again,  and  will  not  forget  this.  I commis- 
sion you  to  see  the  lad  better  dressed,  in  the  beginning  of  the 
week.” 


2 6 


Xtonel  Xincoln 


“Tord,  sir,”  said  the  valet,  “if  it  is  your  pleasure,  most 
certainly  ; but  I declare  I don’t  know  in  what  style  I should 
dress  such  a figure  and  countenance,  to  make  anything  of 
them  ! ’ ’ 

“ Sir,  sir  ! ” cried  the  lad,  running  a few  steps  after  the 
officer,  who  had  already  proceeded,  “if  you  won’t  let  the 
grannies  beat  Job  any  more,  Job  will  always  show  you  the 
way  through  Boston  ; and  run  your  arr’nds  too  ! ” 

‘ ‘ Poor  fellow  ! well,  I promise  that  you  shall  not  be  again 
abused  by  any  of  the  soldiery.  Good-night,  my  honest 
friend  ; let  me  see  you  again.” 

The  idiot  appeared  satisfied  with  this  assurance,  for  he  im- 
mediately turned,  and  gliding  along  the  street  with  a sort  of 
shuffling  gait,  he  soon  disappeared  round  the  first  corner. 
In  the  meantime  the  young  officer  advanced  to  the  entrance 
which  led  into  the  courtyard  of  Mrs.  L,echmere’s  dwelling. 
The  house  was  of  bricks,  and  of  an  exterior  altogether  more 
pretending  than  most  of  those  in  the  lower  parts  of  the  town. 
It  was  heavily  ornamented  in  wood,  according  to  the  taste 
of  a somewhat  earlier  day,  and  presented  a front  of  seven 
windows  in  its  two  upper  stories,  those  at  the  extremes  being 
much  narrower  than  the  others.  The  lower  floor  had  the 
same  arrangement,  with  the  exception  of  the  principal  door. 

Strong  lights  were  shining  in  many  parts  of  the  house, 
which  gave  it,  in  comparison  with  the  gloomy  and  darkened 
edifices  in  its  vicinity,  an  air  of  peculiar  gayety  and  life.  The 
rap  of  the  gentleman  was  answered  instantly  by  an  old  black, 
dressed  in  a becoming,  and  what,  for  the  colonies,  was  a rich 
livery.  The  inquiry  for  Mrs.  Techmere  was  successful,  and 
the  youth  was  conducted  through  a hall  of  some  dimensions, 
into  an  apartment  which  opened  from  one  of  its  sides.  This 
room  would  be  considered,  at  the  present  day,  much  too 
small  to  contain  the  fashion  of  a country  town  ; but  what 
importance  it  wanted  in  size,  was  amply  compensated  for  in 
the  richness  and  labor  of  its  decorations.  The  walls  were  di- 
vided into  compartments,  by  raised  panel-work,  beautifully 
painted  with  imaginary  landscapes  and  ruins.  The  glitter- 
ing, varnished  surfaces  of  these  pictures  were  burdened  with 
armorial  bearings,  which  were  intended  to  illustrate  the  alii- 


Xtonel  Xincolrt 


47 


ances  of  the  family.  Beneath  the  surbase  were  smaller  di- 
visions of  panels,  painted  with  various  architectural  devices  ; 
and  above  it  rose,  between  the  compartments,  fluted  pilasters 
of  wood,  with  gilded  capitals.  A heavy  wooden  and  highly 
ornamented  cornice  stretched  above  the  whole,  furnishing  an 
appropriate  outline  to  the  walls.  The  use  of  carpets  was  at 
that  time  but  little  known  in  the  colonies,  though  the  wealth 
and  station  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  would  probably  have  intro- 
duced the  luxury,  had  not  her  age,  and  the  nature  of  the 
building,  tempted  her  to  adhere  to  ancient  custom.  The 
floor,  which  shone  equally  with  the  furniture,  was  tessellated 
with  small  alternate  squares  of  red-cedar  and  pine,  and  in  the 
centre  were  the  “salient  lions’ ’ of  Techmere,  attempted  by 
the  blazonry  of  the  joiner.  On  either  side  of  the  ponderous 
and  labored  mantel  were  arched  compartments,  of  plainer 
work,  denoting  use,  the  sliding  panels  of  one  of  which, 
being  raised,  displayed  a buffet  groaning  with  massive 
plate.  The  furniture  was  old,  rich,  and  heavy,  but  in 
perfect  preservation.  In  the  midst  of  this  scene  of  colonial 
splendor,  which  was  rendered  as  impressive  as  possible  by 
the  presence  of  numerous  waxen  lights,  a lady,  far  in  the  de- 
cline of  life,  sat,  in  formal  propriety,  on  a small  settee.  The 
officer  had  thrown  his  cloak  into  the  hands  of  Meriton,  in 
the  hall,  and  as  he  advanced  up  the  apartment,  his  form  ap- 
peared in  the  gay  dress  of  a soldier,  giving  to  its  ease  and  fine 
proportions  the  additional  charm  of  military  garnish.  The 
hard,  severe  eye  of  the  lady  sensibly  softened  with  pleased 
surprise,  as  it  dwelt  on  his  person  for  an  instant  after  she 
arose  to  receive  her  guest ; but  the  momentary  silence  was 
first  broken  by  the  youth,  who  said, — 

“ I have  entered  unannounced,  for  my  impatience  has 
exceeded  my  breeding,  madam,  while  each  step  I have  taken 
in  this  house  recalls  the  days  of  my  boyhood,  and  of  my 
former  freedom  within  its  walls.” 

‘ ‘ My  cousin  Lincoln  ! ’ ’ interrupted  the  lady,  who  was 
Mrs.  Techmere  ; “ that  dark  eye,  that  smile,  nay,  your  very 
step,  announces  you  ! I must  have  forgotten  my  poor 
brother,  and  one  also  who  is  still  so  dear  to  us,  not  to  have 
known  you  a true  Lincoln.” 


28 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


There  was  a distance  in  the  manner  of  both,  at  meeting, 
which  might  easily  have  been  imparted  by  the  precise  for- 
mula of  the  provincial  school,  of  which  the  lady  was  so  dis- 
tinguished a member,  but  which  was  not  sufficient  to  explain 
the  sad  expression  that  suddenly  and  powerfully  blended 
with  the  young  man’s  smile,  as  she  spoke.  The  change, 
however,  was  but  momentary,  and  he  answered  courteously 
to  her  assurances  of  recognition,— 

‘ 4 1 have  long  been  taught  to  expect  a second  home  in 
Tremont  Street,  and  I find  by  your  flattering  remembrance 
of  myself  and  parents,  dear  madam,  that  my  expectations 
are  justified.” 

The  lady  was  sensibly  pleased  at  this  remark,  and  she 
suffered  a smile  to  unbend  her  rigid  brow,  as  she  answered  : 
“A  home,  certainly,  though  it  be  not  such  a one  as  the 
heir  of  the  wealthy  house  of  Lincoln  may  have  been  accus- 
tomed to  dwell  in.  It  would  be  strange,  indeed,  could  any 
allied  to  that  honorable  family  forget  to  entertain  its  repre- 
sentative with  due  respect.” 

The  youth  seemed  conscious  that  quite  as  much  had  now 
been  said  as  the  occasion  required,  as  he  raised  his  head 
from  bowing  respectfully  on  her  hand,  with  the  intention  of 
changing  the  subject  to  one  less  personal,  when  his  eye 
caught  a glimpse  of  the  figure  of  another,  and  more  youth- 
ful female,  who  had  been  concealed,  hitherto,  by  the  drapery 
of  a window-curtain.  Advancing  to  this  young  lady,  he 
said,  with  the  quickness  that  rather  betrayed  his  willingness 
to  suspend  further  compliment, — 

“And  here  I see  one  also,  to  whom  I have  the  honor  of 
being  related,  Miss  Dynevor  ? ’ ’ 

“ Though  it  be  not  my  grandchild,”  said  Mrs.  Lechmere, 
“it  is  one  who  claims  an  equal  affinity  to  you,  Major  Lin- 
coln ; it  is  Agnes  Danforth,  the  daughter  of  my  late  niece.” 
“ ’T  was  my  eye,  then,  and  not  my  feelings,  that  were 
mistaken,”  returned  the  young  soldier  ; “I  hope  this  lady 
will  admit  my  claim  to  call  her  cousin  ? ’ ’ 

A .simple  inclination  of  the  body  was  the  only  answer  he 
received,  though  she  did  not  decline  the  hand  which  he 
offered  with  his  salutations.  After  a few  more  of  the  usual 


Xionel  Lincoln 


29 


expressions  of  pleasure,  and  the  ordinary  inquiries  that  sue- 
ceed  such  meetings,  the  party  became  seated,  and  a more 
regular  discourse  followed. 

“ I am  pleased  to  find  you  remember  us  then,  cousin 
Lionel,”  said  Mrs.  L,echmere  ; “we  have  so  little  in  this 
remote  province  that  will  compare  with  the  mother  country, 
I had  feared  no  vestiges  of  the  place  of  your  birth  could 
remain  on  your  mind.  ’ ’ 

“ I find  the  town  greatly  altered,  it  is  true,  but  there  are 
many  places  in  it  which  I still  remember,  though  certainly 
their  splendor  is  a little  diminished,  in  my  eyes,  by  absence 
and  a familiarity  with  other  scenes.” 

‘ ‘ Doubtless  an  acquaintance  with  the  British  court  will 
have  no  tendency  to  exalt  our  humble  customs  in  your  itm 
agination  ; neither  do  we  possess  many  buildings  to  attract 
the  notice  of  a travelled  stranger.  There  is  a tradition  in 
our  family,  that  your  seat  in  Devonshire  is  as  large  as  any 
dozen  edifices  in  Boston,  public  or  private  ; nay,  we  are 
proud  of  saying,  that  the  king  himself  is  lodged  as  well  as 
the  head  of  the  Lincoln  family,  only  when  at  his  castle  of 
Windsor  ! ” 

‘ ‘ Ravenscliffe  is  certainly  a place  of  some  magnitude,  ’ ’ 
returned  the  young  man,  carelessly,  “though  you  will  re- 
member his  majesty  affects  but  little  state  at  Kew.  I have, 
however,  spent  so  little  of  my  time  in  the  country,  that  I 
hardly  know  its  conveniences  or  its  extent.  ’ ’ 

The  old  lady  bowed  with  that  sort  of  complacency  which 
the  dwellers  in  the  colonies  were  apt  to  betray,  whenever 
an  allusion  was  made  to  the  acknowledged  importance  of 
their  connections  in  that  country,  towards  which  they  all 
looked  as  to  the  fountain  of  honor  ; and  then,  as  quickly  as 
if  the  change  in  her  ideas  was  but  a natural  transition  in 
the  subject,  she  observed, — 

‘ ‘ Surely  Cecil  cannot  know  of  the  arrival  of  our  kins- 
man ; she  is  not  apt  to  be  so  remiss  in  paying  attention  to 
our  guests.  ’ ’ 

“She  does  me  the  more  honor,  that  she  considers  me 
a relative,  and  one  who  requires  no  formality  in  his  recep- 
tion.” 


3° 


Xionel  Xtncoin 


“You  are  but  cousins  twice  removed/  ’ returned  the  old 
lady,  a little  gravely  ; ‘ ‘ and  there  is  surely  no  affinity  in 
that  degree  which  can  justify  any  forgetfulness  of  the  usual 
courtesies.  You  see,  cousin  Lionel,  how  much  we  value 
the  consanguinity,  when  it  is  a subject  of  pride  to  the  most 
remote  branches  of  the  family  ! ’ 5 

“ I am  but  little  of  a genealogist,  madam  ; though,  if  I 
retain  a true  impression  of  what  I have  heard,  Miss  Dyne- 
vor  is  of  too  good  blood,  in  the  direct  line,  to  value  the 
collateral  drops  of  an  intermarriage/’ 

“ Pardon  me,  Major  Lincoln  ; her  father,  Colonel  Dyne- 
vor,  was  certainly  an  Englishman  of  an  ancient  and  honor- 
able name,  but  no  family  in  the  realm  need  scorn  an  alliance 
with  our  own.  I say  our  own,  cousin  Lionel,  for  I would 
never  have  you  forget  that  I am  a Lincoln,  and  was  the  sis- 
ter of  your  grandfather.” 

A little  surprised  at  the  seeming  contradiction  in  the 
language  of  the  good  lady,  the  young  man  bowed  his  head 
to  the  compliment,  and  cast  his  eyes  at  his  younger  com- 
panion with  a sort  of  longing  to  change  the  discourse,  by 
addressing  the  reserved  young  women  nigh  him,  that  was 
very  excusable  in  one  of  his  sex  and  years.  He  had  not 
time,  however,  to  make  more  than  one  or  two  commonplace 
remarks,  and  receive  their  answers,  before  Mrs.  Lechmere 
said,  with  some  exhibition  of  staid  displeasure  against  her 
grandchild, — 

‘ ‘ Go,  Agnes,  and  acquaint  your  cousin  of  this  happy 
event.  She  has  been  sensibly  alive  to  your  safety  during 
the  whole  time  consumed  by  your  voyage.  We  have  had 
the  prayers  of  the  church,  for  a ‘ person  gone  to  sea/  read 
each  Sunday  since  the  receipt  of  your  letters  announcing 
your  intention  to  embark  ; and  I have  been  exceedingly 
pleased  to  observe  the  deep  interest  with  which  Cecil  joined 
in  our  petitions.” 

Lionel  mumbled  a few  words  of  thanks,  and  leaning  back 
in  his  chair,  threw  his  eyes  upward,  but  whether  in  pious 
gratitude  or  not,  we  conceive  it  is  not  our  province  to 
determine.  During  the  delivery  of  Mrs.  Lechmere’s  last 
speech  and  the  expressive  pantomime  that  succeeded  it, 


%ionc i ^Lincoln 


3* 


Agnes  Danforth  rose  and  left  the  room.  The  door  had 
been  some  little  time  closed  before  the  silence  was  again 
broken,  during  which  Mrs.  Lechmere  evidently  essayed  in 
vain,  once  or  twice  to  speak.  Her  color,  pale  and  immov- 
able as  usually  seemed  her  withered  look,  changed  in  its 
shades,  and  her  lip  trembled  involuntarily.  She,  however, 
soon  found  her  utterance,  though  the  first  tones  of  her  voice 
were  choked  and  husky. 

“ I may  have  appeared  remiss,  cousin  Lionel,”  she  said, 
“ but  there  are  subjects  that  can  be  discussed  with  propriety 
only  between  the  nearest  relatives.  Sir  Lionel — you  left 
him  in  as  good  a state  of  bodily  health,  I hope,  as  his  mental 
illness  will  allow  ? ” 

‘ ‘ It  is  so  represented  to  me.  ’ ’ 

“ You  have  seen  him  lately  ? ” 

“ Not  in  fifteen  years.  My  presence  was  said  to  increase 
his  disorder,  and  the  physicians  forbade  any  more  inter- 
views. He  continues  at  the  private  establishment  near 
town,  and,  as  the  lucid  intervals  are  thought  to  increase, 
both  in  frequency  and  duration,  I often  indulge  in  the 
pleasing  hope  of  being  restored  again  to  my  father.  The 
belief  is  justified  by  his  years,  which,  you  know  are  yet 
under  fifty.’  ’ 

A long  and  apparently  a painful  silence  succeeded  this 
interesting  communication  ; at  length  the  lady  said,  with  a 
tremor  in  her  voice,  for  which  the  young  man  almost  rev- 
erenced her,  as  it  so  plainly  bespoke  her  interest  in  her 
nephew,  as  well  as  the  goodness  of  her  heart, — 

“ I will  thank  you  for  a glass  of  that  water  in  the  buffet. 
Pardon  me,  cousin  Lionel,  but  this  melancholy  subject 
always  overcomes  me.  I will  retire  a few  moments,  with 
your  indulgence,  and  hasten  the  appearance  of  my  grand- 
child. I pine  that  you  may  meet.” 

Her  absence,  just  at  that  moment,  was  too  agreeable  to 
the  feelings  of  Lionel  for  him  to  gainsay  her  intention  ; 
though,  instead  of  following  Agnes  Danforth,  who  had  pre- 
ceded her  on  the  same  duty,  the  tottering  steps  of  Mrs. 
Lechmere  conducted  her  to  a door  which  communicated 
with  her  own  apartment.  For  several  minutes  the  young 


3* 


Lionel  Xtncoln 


man  trampled  on  the  ‘ ‘ salient  lions  ’ ’ of  Lechmere  with  a 
rapidity  that  seemed  to  emulate  their  own  mimic  speed,  as  he 
paced  to  and  fro  across  the  narrow  apartment,  his  eye  glanc- 
ing vacantty  along  the  labored  wainscots,  embracing  the 
argent,  azure,  and  purpure  fields  of  the  different  escutcheons, 
as  heedlessly  as  if  they  were  not  charged  with  the  distin- 
guishing symbols  of  so  many  honorable  names.  This  mental 
abstraction  was,  however,  shortly  dissipated  by  the  sudden 
appearance  of  one  who  had  glided  into  the  room  and  ad- 
vanced to  its  centre  before  he  became  conscious  of  her  pres- 
ence. A light,  rounded,  and  exquisitely  proportioned  female 
form,  accompanied  by  a youthful  and  expressive  counte- 
nance, with  an  air  in  which  womanly  grace  blended  so 
nicely  with  feminine  delicacy  as  to  cause  each  motion  and 
gesture  to  command  respect,  at  the  same  time  that  it  was 
singularly  insinuating,  was  an  object  to  suspend  even  at  a 
first  glance,  provided  that  glance  were  by  surprise,  the  steps 
of  a more  absent  and  less  courteous  youth  than  the  one  we 
have  attempted  to  described.  Major  Lincoln  knew  that  this 
young  lady  could  be  no  other  than  Cecil  Dynevor,  the 
daughter  of  a British  officer,  long  since  deceased,  by  the 
only  child  of  Mrs.  Lechmere,  who  was  also  in  her  grave ; 
and,  consequently,  that  she  was  one  to  whom  he  was  so  well 
known  by  character,  and  so  nearly  allied  by  blood,  as  to 
render  it  an  easy  task  for  a man  accustomed  to  the  world 
as  he  had  been,  to  remove  any  little  embarrassments  which 
might  have  beset  a less  practised  youth,  by  acting  as  his  own 
usher.  This  he  certainly  attempted,  and  at  first  with  a free- 
dom which  his  affinity  and  the  circumstances  would  seem  to 
allow,  though  it  was  chastened  by  easy  politeness.  But  the 
restraint  visible  in  the  manner  of  the  lady  was  so  marked, 
that,  by  the  time  his  salutations  were  ended  and  he  had 
handed  her  to  a seat,  the  young  man  felt  as  much  embar- 
rassment as  if  he  had  found  himself  alone,  for  the  first  time, 
with  the  woman  whom  he  had  been  pining,  for  months,  to 
favor  with  a very  particular  communication.  Whether  it  is 
that  nature  has  provided  the  other  sex  with  a tact  for  these 
occasions,  or  that  the  young  lady  became  sensible  that  her 
deportment  was  not  altogether  such  as  was  worthy  either  of 


Xxonel  Xincoln 


33 


herself  or  the  guest  of  her  grandmother,  she  was  certainly 
the  first  to  relieve  the  slight  awkwardness  that  was  but  too 
apparent  in  the  commencement  of  the  interview. 

‘ ‘ My  grandmother  has  long  been  expecting  this  pleasure, 
Major  Lincoln,”  she  said,  “ and  your  arrival  has  been  at  a 
most  auspicious  moment.  The  state  of  the  country  grows 
each  day  so  very  alarming,  that  I have  indeed  long  urged 
her  to  visit  our  relatives  in  England,  until  the  disputes  shall 
have  terminated.” 

The  tones  of  an  extremely  soft  and  melodious  voice,  and  a 
pronunciation  quite  as  exact  as  if  the  speaker  had  acquired 
the  sounds  in  the  English  court,  and  which  was  entirely  free 
from  the  slight  vernacular  peculiarity  which  had  offended 
his  ear  in  the  few  words  that  fell  from  Agnes  Danforth, 
certainly  aided  a native  attraction  of  manner,  which  it 
seemed  impossible  for  the  young  lady  to  cast  entirely  aside. 

“You  who  are  so  much  of  an  Englishwoman,  would  find 
great  pleasure  in  the  exchange,”  he  answered  ; “ and  if  half 
what  I have  heard  from  a fellow-passenger,  of  the  state  of 
the  country,  be  true,  I shall  be  foremost  in  seconding  your 
request.  Both  Ravenscliffe  and  the  house  in  Soho  would  be 
greatly  at  the  service  of  Mrs.  Lechmere.” 

‘ ‘ It  was  my  wish  that  she  would  accept  the  pressing  invi- 
tations of  my  father’s  relative,  Lord  Cardonnel,  who  has 
long  urged  me  to  pass  a few  years  in  his  own  family.  A 
separation  would  be  painful  to  us  both,  but  should  my  grand- 
mother, in  such  an  event,  determine  to  take  her  residence  in 
the  dwellings  of  her  ancestors,  I could  not  be  censured  for 
adopting  a resolution  to  abide  under  the  roofs  of  mine.  ’ * 

The  piercing  eye  of  Major  Lincoln  fell  full  upon  her  own, 
as  she  delivered  this  intention,  and  as  it  dropped  on  the  floor, 
the  slight  smile  that  played  round  his  lips  was  produced  by 
the  passing  thought,  that  the  provincial  beauty  had  inherited 
so  much  of  her  grandmother’s  pride  of  genealogy,  as  to  be 
willing  to  impress  on  his  mind  that  the  niece  of  a viscount 
was  superior  to  the  heir  of  a baronetcy.  But  the  quick, 
burning  flush  that  instantly  passed  across  the  features  of 
Cecil  Dynevor,  might  have  taught  him  that  she  was  acting 
under  the  impulse  of  much  deeper  feelings  than  such  an 


34 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


unworthy  purpose  would  indicate.  The  effect,  however,  was 
such  as  to  make  the  young  man  glad  to  see  Mrs.  Lechmere 
re-enter  the  room,  leaning  on  the  arm  of  her  niece. 

“I  perceive,  my  cousin  Lionel,’ * said  the  lady,  as  she 
moved  with  a feeble  step  towards  the  settee,  4 4 that  you  and 
Cecil  have  found  each  other  out,  without  the  necessity  of 
any  other  introduction  than  the  affinity  between  you.  I 
surely  do  not  mean  the  affinity  of  blood  altogether,  you 
know,  for  that  cannot  be  said  to  amount  to  anything ; but 
I believe  there  exist  certain  features  of  the  mind  that  are 
transmitted  through  families  quite  as  distinctly  as  any  which 
belong  to  the  countenance.” 

4 4 Could  I flatter  myself  with  possessing  the  slightest  re- 
semblance to  Miss  Dynevor,  in  either  of  those  particulars,  I 
should  be  doubly  proud  of  the  connection,”  returned  Lionel, 
while  he  assisted  the  good  lady  to  a seat,  with  a coolness 
that  sufficiently  denoted  how  little  he  cared  about  the 
matter.  | 

4 4 But  I am  not  disposed  to  have  my  right  to  claim  near 
kindred  with  cousin  Lionel  at  all  disputed,”  cried  the  young 
lady,  with  sudden  animation.  4 ‘It  has  pleased  our  fore- 
fathers to  order  such — ’ ’ 

“Nay,  nay,  my  child,”  interrupted  her  grandmother, 

4 4 you  forget  that  the  term  of  cousin  can  only  be  used  in 
cases  of  near  consanguinity,  and  where  familiar  situations 
will  excuse  it.  But  Major  Lincoln  knows  that  we  in  the 
colonies  are  apt  to  make  the  most  of  the  language,  and 
count  our  cousins  almost  as  far  as  if  we  were  members  of 
the  Scottish  clans.  Speaking  of  the  clans  reminds  me  of  « 
the  rebellion  of  ’45.  It  is  not  thought,  in  England,  that 
our  infatuated  colonists  will  ever  be  so  foolhardy  as  to 
assume  their  arms  in  earnest?  ” 

44  There  are  various  opinions  on  that  subject,”  said  Lionel. 

4 4 Most  military  men  scout  the  idea ; though  I find,  occa- 
sionally, an  officer  that  has  served  on  this  continent,  who 
thinks  not  only  that  the  appeal  will  be  made,  but  that  the 
struggle  will  be  bloody. 

4 4 Why  should  they  not?”  said  Agnes  Dansforth,  ab- 
ruptly ; 44  they  are  men,  and  the  English  are  no  more  ! ” 


Xionel  Xincoln 


35 


Lionel  turned  his  looks,  in  a little  surprise,  on  the 
speaker,  to  whose  countenance  an  almost  imperceptible  cast 
in  one  eye  imparted  a look  of  arch  good-nature  that  her 
manner  would  seem  to  contradict,  and  smiled  as  he  repeated 
her  words, — 

“ Why  should  they  not,  indeed  ! I know  no  other  rea- 
sons than  that  it  would  be  both  a mad  and  an  unlawful  act. 
I can  assure  you  that  I am  not  one  of  those  who  affect  to 
undervalue  my  own  countrymen  ; for  you  will  remember 
that  I too  am  an  American.” 

‘ ‘ I have  heard  it  said  that  such  of  our  volunteers  as  wear 
uniforms  at  all, 5 ’ said  Agnes,  ‘ ‘ appear  in  blue,  and  not  in 
scarlet.” 

“ ’T  is  his  majesty’s  pleasure  that  his  47th  foot  should 
wear  this  gaudy  color,”  returned  the  young  man,  laughing  ; 
‘‘though,  for  myself,  I am  quite  willing  to  resign  it  to  the 
use  of  you  ladies,  and  to  adopt  another,  could  it  well  be.” 

“ It  might  be  done,  sir.” 

“ In  what  manner?  ” 

“ By  resigning  your  commission  with  it.” 

Mrs.  Lechmere  had  evidently  permitted  her  niece  to  pro- 
ceed thus  far,  without  interruption,  to  serve  some  purpose 
of  her  own  ; but  perceiving  that  her  guest  by  no  means  ex- 
hibited the  air  of  pique,  which  the  British  officers  were  so 
often  weak  enough  to  betray,  when  the  women  took  into 
their  hands  the  defence  of  their  country’s  honor,  she  rang 
the  bell,  as  she  observed, — 

“Bold  language,  Major  Lincoln!  bold  language,  for  a 
young  lady  under  twenty.  But  Miss  Danforth  is  privi- 
leged to  speak  her  mind  freely,  for  some  of  her  father’s 
family  are  but  too  deeply  implicated  in  the  unlawful  pro- 
ceedings of  these  evil  times.  We  have  kept  Cecil,  how- 
ever, more  to  her  allegiance.” 

‘ ‘ And  yet  even  Cecil  has  been  known  to  refuse  the  favor 
of  her  countenance  to  the  entertainments  given  by  the  Brit- 
ish officers  ! ” said  Agnes,  a little  piquantly. 

“And  would  you  have  Cecil  Dynevor  frequent  balls  and 
entertainments  unaccompanied  by  a proper  chaperon?”  re- 
turned Mrs.  Lechmere  ; “ or  it  is  expected  that,  at  seventy, 


36 


3Liortel  ^Lincoln 


I can  venture  in  public  to  maintain  the  credit  of  our  family  ? 
But  we  keep  Major  Lincoln  from  his  refreshments  with  our 
idle  disputes.  Cato,  we  wait  your  movements.” 

Mrs.  Lechmere  delivered  her  concluding  intimation  to 
the  black  in  attendance,  with  an  air  that  partook  somewhat 
of  mystery.  The  old  domestic,  who,  probably  from  long 
practice,  understood,  more  by  the  expression  of  her  eye 
than  by  any  words  she  had  uttered,  the  wishes  of  his 
mistress,  proceeded  to  close  the  outer  shutters  of  the 
windows,  and  to  draw  the  curtains  with  the  most  exact 
care.  When  this  duty  was  performed,  he  raised  a small 
oval  table  from  its  regular  position  among  the  flowing  folds 
of  the  drapery  that  shrouded  the  deep  apertures  for  light, 
and  placed  it  in  front  of  Miss  Dynevor.  A salver  of 
massive  silver,  containing  an  equipage  of  the  finest  Dresden, 
followed,  and  in  a few  minutes  a hissing  urn  of  the  same 
precious  metal  garnished  the  polished  surface  of  the 
mahogany.  During  these  arrangements,  Mrs.  Lechmere  \ 
and  her  guest  had  maintained  a general  discourse,  touch- 
ing chiefly  on  the  welfare  and  condition  of  certain  indi-  ? 
viduals  of  their  alliance  in  England.  Notwithstanding  the 
demand  thus  made  on  his  attention,  Lionel  was  able  to 
discover  a certain  appearance  of  mystery  and  caution  in 
each  movement  of  the  black,  as  he  proceeded  leisurely  in 
his  duty.  Miss  Dynevor  permitted  the  disposition  of  the 
tea-table  to  be  made  before  her,  passively,  and  her  cousin, 
Agnes  Danforth,  threw  herself  back  on  one  of  the  settees, 
with  a look  that  indicated  cool  displeasure.  When  the 
usual  compound  was  made  in  two  little  fluted  cups,  over 
whose  pure  white  a few  red  and  green  sprigs  were  sparingly 
scattered,  the  black  presented  one  containing  the  grateful 
beverage  to  his  mistress,  and  the  other  to  the  stranger. 

“Pardon  me,  Miss  Danforth,”  said  Lionel,  recollecting 
himself  after  he  had  accepted  the  offering  ; “I  have  suffered 
my  sea-breeding  to  obtain  the  advantage.” 

“Enjoy  your  error,  sir,  if  }'OU  can  find  any  gratification 
in  the  indulgence,”  returned  the  }'oung  lad}'. 

“ But  I should  enjoy  it  the  more,  could  I see  you  partici- 
pating in  the  luxury.” 


Xionel  SUncoln 


37 


“ You  have  termed  the  idle  indulgence  well ; ’t  is  nothing 
but  a luxury,  and  such  a one  as  can  be  easily  dispensed 
with  ; I thank  you,  sir,  I do  not  drink  tea.” 

“ Surely  no  lady  can  forswear  her  bohea  ! be  persuaded.” 
< ‘ I know  not  how  the  subtle  poison  may  operate  on  your 
English  ladies,  Major  Lincoln,  but  it  is  no  difficult  matter 
for  an  American  girl  to  decline  the  use  of  a detestable  herb, 
which  is  one,  among  many  others,  of  the  causes  that  is  likely 
to  involve  her  country  and  kindred  in  danger  and  strife.” 
The  young  man,  who  had  really  intended  no  more  than 
the  common  civilities  due  from  his  sex  to  the  other,  bowed 
in  silence,  though,  as  he  turned  from  her,  he  could  not  for- 
bear looking  towards  the  table  to  see  whether  the  principles 
of  the  other  young  American  were  quite  as  rigid.  Cecil 
sat  bending  over  the  salver,  playing  idly  with  a curiously 
wrought  spoon,  made  to  represent  a sprig  of  the  plant  whose 
fragrance  had  been  thus  put  in  requisition  to  contribute  to 
his  indulgence,  while  the  steam  from  the  china  vessel  before 
her  was  wreathing  in  a faint  mist  around  her  polished  brow. 

“You,  at  least,  Miss  Dynevor,”  said  Eionel,  “appear  to 
have  no  dislike  to  the  herb, — you  breathe  its  vapor  so 
freely.” 

Cecil  cast  a glance  at  him,  which  changed  the  demure  and 
somewhat  proud  composure  of  her  countenance  into  a look  of 
sudden,  joyous  humor,  that  was  infinitely  more  natural,  as 
she  answered,  laughingly, — 

“ I own  a woman's  weakness.  I must  believe  that  it  was 
tea  that  tempted  our  common  mother  in  Paradise  ! ” 

“ It  would  show  that  the  cunning  of  the  serpent  has  been 
transmitted  to  a later  day,  could  that  be  proved,”  said  Agnes, 

‘ ‘ though  the  instrument  of  temptation  has  lost  some  of  its 
virtue.” 

“ How  know  you  that?”  said  Lionel,  anxious  to  pursue 
the  trifling,  in  order  to  remove  the  evident  distance  which 
had  existed  between  them  ; ‘ ‘ had  Eve  shut  her  ears  as 
rigidly  as  you  close  your  mouth  against  the  offering,  we 
might  yet  have  enjoyed  the  first  gift  to  our  parents.” 

“ Oh,  sir,  ’t  is  no  such  stranger  to  me  as  you  may  imagine 
from  the  indifference  I have  assumed  on  the  present  occasion  ; 


3« 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


as  Job  Pray  says,  Boston  harbor  is  nothing  but  a ‘ big  tea- 
pot ! 1 ” 

'‘You  know  Job  Pray,  then,  Miss  Danforth  ? " said  Lionel, 
not  a little  amused  by  her  spirit. 

“ Certainly;  Boston  is  so  small,  and  Job  so  useful,  that 
everybody  knows  the  simpleton.' * 

“He  belongs  to  a distinguished  family,  then,  for  I have 
his  own  assurance  that  everybody  knows  his  perturbed 
mother,  Abigail." 

“ You  ! " exclaimed  Cecil,  again,  in  that  sweet  natural  voice 
that  had  before  startled  her  auditor  ; ‘ ‘ what  can  you  know 
of  poor  Job  and  his  almost  equally  unfortunate  mother?  " 

“Now,  young  ladies,  I have  you  in  my  snares  !"  cried 
Lionel  ; ‘ ‘ you  may  possibly  resist  the  steams  of  tea,  but  what 
woman  can  withstand  the  impulse  of  her  curiosity?  Not 
to  be  too  cruel  with  my  fair  kinswoman  on  so  short  an 
acquaintance,  however,  I will  go  so  far  as  to  acknowledge 
that  I have  already  had  an  interview  with  Mrs.  Pray." 

The  reply  which  Agnes  was  about  to  deliver  was  inter-  ? 
rupted  by  a slight  crash,  and  on  turning  they  beheld  the 
fragments  of  a piece  of  the  splendid  set  of  Dresden  lying  at  * 
the  feet  of  Mrs.  Lechmere. 

“My  dear  grandmamma  is  ill!"  cried  Cecil,  springing 
to  the  assistance  of  the  old  lady.  “Hasten,  Cato — Major 
Lincoln,  you  are  more  active — for  Heaven’s  sake,  a glass  of 
water — Agnes,  your  salts." 

The  amiable  anxiety  of  her  grandchild  was  not,  however, 
so  necessary  as  first  appearances  would  have  indicated,  and 
Mrs.  Lechmere  gently  put  aside  the  salts,  though  she  did  not 
decline  the  glass  which  Lionel  offered  for  the  second  time  in 
so  short  a period. 

“ I believe  you  will  mistake  me  for  a sad  invalid,  cousin 
Lionel,"  said  the  old  lady,  when  she  had  become  a little 
composed;  “but  I believe  it  is  this  very  tea,  of  which  so 
much  has  been  said,  and  which  I drink  to  excess,  from  pure 
loyalty,  that  unsettles  my  nerves ; I must  refrain,  like  the 
girls,  though  from  a very  different  motive.  We  are  a people 
of  early  hours,  Major  Lincoln,  but  you  are  at  home  here,  and 
will  pursue  your  pleasure.  I must,  however,  claim  an  in- 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


39 


dulgence  for  threescore-and-ten,  and  be  permitted  to  wish 
you  a good  rest  after  your  voyage.  Cato  has  his  orders  to 
contribute  all  he  can  to  your  comfort.” 

Leaning  on  her  two  assistants,  the  old  lady  withdrew, 
leaving  Lionel  to  the  full  possession  of  the  apartment.  As 
the  hour  was  getting  late,  and,  from  the  compliments  they 
had  exchanged,  he  did  not  expect  the  return  of  the  younger 
ladies,  he  called  for  a candle,  and  was  shown  to  his  own 
room.  As  soon  as  the  few  indispensables  which  rendered  a 
valet  necessary  to  a gentleman  of  that  period  were  observed, 
he  dismissed  Meriton,  and  throwing  himself  on  his  bed, 
courted  the  sweets  of  the  pillow. 

Many  incidents,  however,  had  occurred  during  the  day, 
that  induced  a train  of  thoughts  which  for  a long  time  pre- 
vented his  attaining  the  natural  rest  he  sought.  After  in- 
dulging in  long  and  uneasy  reflections  on  certain  events,  too 
closely  connected  with  his  personal  feelings  to  be  lightly  re- 
membered, the  young  man  began  to  muse  on  his  reception, 
and  on  the  individuals  who  had  been,  as  it  were,  for  the  first 
time,  introduced  to  him. 

It  was  quite  apparent  that  both  Mrs.  Lechmere  and  her 
granddaughter  were  acting  their  several  parts,  though 
whether  in  concert  or  not,  remained  to  be  discovered.  But 
in  Agnes  Danforth,  with  all  his  subtlety;  he  could  perceive 
nothing  but  the  plain  and  direct,  though  a little  blunt, 
peculiarities  of  her  nature  and  education.  Like  most  very' 
young  men,  who  had  just  been  made  acquainted  with  two 
youthful  females,  both  of  them  much  superior  to  the  gener- 
ality of  their  sex  in  personal  charms,  he  fell  asleep  musing 
on  their  characters.  Nor,  considering  the  circumstances, 
will  it  be  at  all  surprising,  when  we  add,  before  morning,  he 
was  dreaming  of  the  Avon  of  Bristol,  on  board  which  stout 
vessel  he  even  thought  that  he  was  discussing  a chowder  on 
the  Banks  of  Newfoundland,  which  had  been  unaccountably 
prepared  by  the  fair  hands  of  Miss  Danforth,  and  which  was 
strangely  flavored  with  tea  ; while  the  Hebe-looking  counte- 
nance of  Cecil  Dynevor  was  laughing  at  his  perplexities  with 
undisguised  good-humor,  and  with  all  the  vivacity  of  girlish 
merriment. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

“ A good  portly  man,  V faith,  and  a corpulent.” 

King  Henry  IV. 

^ f ^ HE  sun  was  just  stirring  the  heavy  bank  of  fog, 
which  had  rested  on  the  waters  during  the  night, 
Jl^  as  Lionel  toiled  his  way  up  the  side  of  Beacon 
Hill,  anxious  to  catch  a glimpse  of  his  native 
scenery  while  it  was  yet  glowing  with  the  first  touch  of 
day.  The  islands  raised  their  green  heads  above  the  mist, 
and  the  wide  amphitheatre  of  hills  that  encircled  the  bay  was  ’ 
still  visible,  though  the  vapor  was  creeping  in  places  along 
the  valleys, — now  concealing  the  entrance  to  some  beautiful  • 
glen,  and  now  wreathing  itself  fantastically  around  a tall 
spire  that  told  the  site  of  a suburban  village.  Though  the 
people  of  the  town  were  awake  and  up,  yet  the  sacred 
character  of  the  day,  and  the  state  of  the  times,  contributed 
to  suppress  those  sounds  which  usually  distinguish  populous 
places.  The  cool  nights  and  warm  days  of  April  had  gen-  i 
erated  a fog  more  than  usually  dense,  which  was  deserting 
its  watery  bed,  and  stealing  insidiously  along  the  land,  to 

c | 

unite  with  the  vapors  of  the  rivers  and  brooks,  spreading  a 
wider  curtain  before  the  placid  view.  As  Lionel  stood  on 
the  brow  of  the  platform  that  crowned  the  eminence,  the 
glimpses  of  houses  and  hills,  of  towers  and  ships,  of  places 
known  and  places  forgotten,  passed  before  his  vision,  through 
the  openings  in  the  mist,  like  phantoms  of  the  imagination. 
The  whole  .scene,  animated  and  in  motion,  as  it  seemed  by 
its  changes,  appeared  to  his  excited  feelings  like  a fanciful 
panorama,  exhibited  for  his  eye  alone,  when  his  enjoyment 
was  interrupted  by  a voice  apparently  at  no  great  dis- 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


41 


tance.  It  was  a man  singing  to  a common  English  air  frag- 
ments of  some  ballad,  with  a peculiarly  vile  nasal  cadency. 
Through  the  frequent  pauses,  he  was  enabled  to  comprehend 
a few  words  which,  by  their  recurrence,  were  evidently 
intended  for  a chorus  to  the  rest  of  the  production.  The 
reader  will  understand  the  character  of  the  whole  from  these 
lines,  which  ran  as  follows  : — 

“ And  they  that  would  be  free, 

Out  they  go  ; 

While  the  slaves,  as  you  may  see, 

Stay,  to  drink  their  p’ison  tea, 

Down  below ! ” 

Lionel,  after  listening  to  this  expressive  ditty  for  a mo- 
ment, followed  the  direction  of  the  sounds  until  he  encoun- 
tered Job  Pray,  who  was  seated  on  one  of  the  flights  of 
steps,  which  aided  the  ascent  to  the  platform,  cracking  a 
few  walnuts  on  the  boards,  while  he  employed  those  inter- 
vals, when  his  mouth  could  find  no  better  employment,  in 
uttering  the  above-mentioned  strains. 

4 ‘How  now,  Master  Pray;  do  you  come  here  to  sing 
your  orisons  to  the  goddess  of  liberty,  on  a Sunday  morn- 
ing ? ’ 5 cried  Lionel ; “or  are  you  the  town  lark,  and  for 
want  of  wings,  take  to  this  height  to  obtain  an  altitude  for 
your  melody  ? ’ 5 

“ There  ’s  no  harm  in  singing  psalm  tunes  or  continental 
songs  any  day  in  the  week,”  said  the  lad,  without  raising 
his  eyes  from  his  occupation  ; “Job  don’t  know  what  a lark 
is,  but  if  it  belongs  to  the  town,  the  soldiers  are  so  thick, 
they  can’t  keep  it  on  the  common.” 

“And  what  objection  can  you  have  to  the  soldiers  pos- 
sessing a corner  of  your  common  ? ’ ’ 

“ They  starve  the  cows,  and  then  they  won’t  give  milk  ; 
grass  is  sweet  to  beasts  in  the  spring  of  the  year.” 

“But,  my  life  for  it,  the  soldiers  don’t  eat  grass;  your 
brindles  and  your  blacks,  your  reds  and  your  whites,  may 
have  the  first  offering  of  the  spring  as  usual.” 

“But  Boston  cows  don’t  love  grass  that  British  soldiers 
i have  trampled  on,”  said  the  sullen  lad. 


42 


Xionel  Lincoln 


“This  is,  indeed,  carrying  notions  of  liberty  to  refine- 
ment ! ” exclaimed  Lionel,  laughing. 

Job  shook  his  head  threateningly,  as  he  looked  up  and  said, 

“ Don’t  you  let  Ralph  hear  you  say  anything  ag’in  liberty  ! ” 

‘ ‘ Ralph  ! who  is  he,  lad  ? your  genius  ? where  do  you 
keep  the  invisible,  that  there  is  danger  of  his  overhearing 
what  I say  ? ’ ’ 

‘‘He’s  up  there  in  the  fog,”  said  Job,  pointing  signifi- 
cantly towards  the  foot  of  the  beacon,  which  a dense  volume 
of  vapor  was  enwrapping,  probably  attracted  up  the  tall 
post  that  supported  the  grate. 

Lionel  gazed  at  the  smoky  column  for  a moment,  when 
the  mists  began  to  desolve,  and  amid  their  evolutions  he 
beheld  the  dim  figure  of  his  aged  fellow  passenger.  The 
old  man  was  still  clad  in  his  simple,  tarnished  vestments  of 
gray,  which  harmonized  so  singularly  with  the  mists  as  to 
impart  a look  almost  ethereal  to  his  wasted  form.  As  the 
medium  through  which  he  was  seen  became  less  cloudy,  his 
features  grew  visible,  and  Lionel  could  distinguish  the  un- 
easy, rapid  glances  of  his  eyes,  which  seemed  to  roam  over 
the  distant  objects  with  an  earnestness  that  appeared  to  « 
mock  the  misty  veil  that  was  floating  before  so  much  of  the 
view.  While  Lionel  stood  fixed  to  the  spot,  gazing  at  this 
irregular  being  with  that  secret  awe  which  the  other  had 
succeeded  in  inspiring,  the  old  man  waved  his  hand  impa- 
tiently, as  if  he  would  cast  aside  his  shroud.  At  that  instant 
a bright  sunbeam  darted  into  the  vapor,  illuminating  his 
person,  and  melting  the  mist  into  thin  air.  The  anxious, 
haggard,  and  severe  expression  of  his  countenance  changed 
at  the  touch  of  the  ray,  and  he  smiled  with  a softness  and 
attraction  that  thrilled  the  nerves  of  the  other,  as  he  called 
aloud  to  the  sensitive  young  soldier, — 

“ Come  hither,  Lionel  Lincoln,  to  the  foot  of  this  beacon, 
where  you  may  gather  warnings,  which,  if  properly  heeded, 
will  guide  you  through  many  and  great  dangers  unharmed.” 

“ I am  glad  you  have  spoken,”  said  Lionel,  advancing  to 
his  side;  ‘‘you  appeared  like  a being  of  another  world, 
wrapped  in  that  mantle  of  fog,  and  I felt  tempted  to  kneel, 
and  ask  a benediction,” 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


43 


‘ ‘ And  am  I not  a being  of  another  world  ! Most  of  my 
interests  are  already  in  the  grave,  and  I tarry  here  only  for 
a space,  because  there  is  a great  work  to  be  done,  which 
cannot  be  performed  without  me.  My  view  of  the  world  of 
spirits,  young  man,  is  much  clearer  and  more  distinct  than 
yours  of  this  variable  scene  at  your  feet.  There  is  no  mist  to 
obstruct  the  eye,  nor  any  doubt  as  to  the  colors  it  presents.' ’ 

“ You  are  happy,  sir,  in  the  extremity  of  your  age,  to  be 
so  assured.  But  I fear  your  sudden  determination  last 
night  subjected  you  to  inconvenience  in  the  tenement  of 
this  changeling." 

“ The  boy  is  a good  boy,"  said  the  old  man,  stroking  the 
head  of  the  natural  complacently;  "we  understand  each 
other,  Major  Lincoln,  and  that  shortens  introductions,  and 
renders  communion  easy." 

" That  you  feel  alike  on  one  subject,  I have  already  dis- 
covered ; but  there,  I should  think,  the  resemblance  and  the 
intelligence  must  end." 

“The  propensities  of  the  mind,  in  its  infancy  and  in  its 
maturity,  are  but  a span  apart,"  said  the  stranger;  “the 
amount  of  human  knowledge  is  but  to  know  how  much  we 
are  under  the  dominion  of  our  passions ; and  he  who  has 
learned  by  experience  how  to  smother  the  volcano,  and  he 
who  never  felt  its  fires,  are  surely  fit  associates." 

Lionel  bowed  in  silence  to  an  opinion  so  humbling  to  the 
other,  and,  after  a pause  of  a moment,  adverted  to  their 
situation  : — 

“The  sun  begins  to  make  himself  felt,  and  when  he  has 
driven  away  these  ragged  remnants  of  the  fog,  we  shall  see 
those  places  each  of  us  has  frequented  in  his  day." 

“ Shall  we  find  them  as  we  left  them,  think  you  ? or  will 
you  see  the  stranger  in  possession  of  the  haunts  of  your 
infancy  ? 9 1 

"Not  the  stranger,  certainly,  for  we  are  the  subjects  of 
one  king  ; children  who  own  a common  parent." 

“I  will  not  reply  that  he  has  proved  himself  an  unnat- 
ural father,"  said  the  old  man,  calmly;  “the  gentleman 
who  now  fills  the  British  throne  is  less  to  be  censured  than 
his  advisers,  for  the  oppression  of  his  reign." 


44 


^Lionel  Xlncoln 


“Sir,”  interrupted  Lionel,  “ if  such  allusions  are  made  to 
the  person  of  my  sovereign,  we  must  separate ; for  it  ill 
becomes  a British  officer  to  hear  his  master  mentioned  with 
levity/  ’ 

“ Levity  ! ” repeated  the  other,  slowly.  “It  is  a fault, 
indeed,  to  accompany  gray  locks  and  wasted  limbs ! but 
your  jealous  watchfulness  betrays  you  into  error.  I have 
breathed  in  the  atmosphere  of  kings,  young  man,  and 
know  how  to  separate  the  individual  and  his  purpose  from 
the  policy  of  his  government.  ’Tis  the  latter  that  will 
sever  this  great  empire,  and  deprive  the  third  George  of 
what  has  so  often  and  so  well  been  termed  ‘ the  brightest 
jewel  in  his  crown.’  ” 

“ I must  leave  you,  sir,”  said  Lionel ; “ the  opinions  you 
so  freely  expressed  during  our  passage,  were  on  principles 
which  I can  hardly  call  opposed  to  our  own  constitution, 
and  might  be  heard,  not  only  without  offence,  but  fre- 
quently with  admiration  ; but  this  language  approaches  to 
treason  ! ’ ’ 

“Go,  then,”  returned  the  unmoved  stranger;  “descend 
to  yon  degraded  common,  and  bid  your  mercenaries  seize  i 
me — ’twill  be  only  the  blood  of  an  old  man,  but  ’twill  help 
to  fatten  the  land  ; or  send  your  merciless  grenadiers  to 
torment  their  victim  before  the  axe  shall  do  its  work  ; a 
man  who  has  lived  so  long,  can  surely  spare  a little  of  his 
time  to  the  tormentors  ! ’ ’ 

“ I could  have  thought,  .sir,  that  you  might  spare  such  a 
reproach  to  me,”  said  Lionel. 

“ I do  spare  it,  and  I do  more  ; I forgot  my  years,  and 
solicit  forgiveness.  But  had  you  known  slavery,  as  I have 
done,  in  its  worst  of  forms,  you  would  know  how  to  prize 
the  inestimable  blessing  of  freedom.” 

“Have  you  ever  known  slavery,  in  your  travels,  more 
closely  than  in  what  you  deem  the  violations  of  principle  ? ’ ’ 

“ Have  I not?  ” said  the  stranger,  smiling  bitterly.  “ I 
have  known  it  as  man  should  never  know  it — in  act  and 
will.  I have  lived  days,  months,  and  even  years,  to  hear 
others  coldly  declare  my  wants  ; to  see  others  dole  out  their 
meagre  pittances  to  my  necessities,  and  to  hear  others  as^ 


%ioncl  ^Lincoln 


45 


sume  the  right  to  express  the  sufferings  and  to  control  the 
enjoyments  of  sensibilities  that  God  has  given  to  me  only  ! ” 
“To  endure  such  thraldom,  you  must  have  fallen  into 
the  power  of  the  infidel  barbarians.  ’ ’ 

“Ah  ! boy,  I thank  you  for  the  words  ; they  were  indeed 
worthy  of  the  epithets  ; infidels,  that  denied  the  precepts  of 
our  blessed  Redeemer,  and  barbarians,  that  treated  one  hav- 
ing a soul,  and  possessing  reason  like  themselves,  as  a beast 
of  the  field.” 

“Why  did  n’t  you  come  to  Boston,  Ralph,  and  tell  that 
to  the  people  in  Funnel  Hall?”  exclaimed  Job  ; “ ther’d 
ha’  been  a stir  about  it ! ” 

“Child,  I did  come  to  Boston,  again  and  again,  in 
thought ; and  the  appeals  that  I made  to  my  townsmen 
would  have  moved  the  very  roof  of  old  Faneuil,  could  they 
have  been  uttered  within  her  walls.  But  ’twas  in  vain  ! 
they  had  the  power,  and  like  demons — or,  rather,  like 
miserable  men — they  abused  it.” 

Fionel,  sensibly  touched,  wras  about  to  reply  in  a suitable 
manner,  when  he  heard  a voice  calling  his  own  name  aloud, 
as  if  the  speaker  were  ascending  the  opposite  acclivity  of 
the  hill.  The  instant  the  sounds  reached  his  ears,  the  old 
man  rose  from  his  seat,  on  the  foundation  of  the  beacon, 
and  gliding  over  the  brow  of  the  platform,  followed  by  Job, 
they  descended  into  a volume  of  mist,  that  was  still  clinging 
to  the  .side  of  the  hill,  with  amazing  swiftness. 

“Why,  Reo  ! thou  lion  in  name,  and  deer  in  activity  ! ” 
exclaimed  the  intruder,  as  he  surmounted  the  steep  ascent, 

‘ ‘ what  can  have  brought  you  up  into  the  clouds  so  early  ! 
Whew  ! a man  needs  a Newmarket  training  to  scale  such 
a precipice.  But,  Reo,  my  dear  fellow,  I rejoice  to  see  you  ; 
we  knew  you  were  expected  in  the  first  ship,  and  as  I was 
coming  from  morning  parade,  I met  a couple  of  grooms  in 
the  ‘ Lincoln  green,’  you  know,  leading  each  a blooded 
charger  ; faith,  one  of  them  would  have  been  quite  con- 
venient to  climb  this  accursed  hill  on — whew  and  whew-w, 
again ! well,  I knew  the  liveries  at  a glance  ; as  to  the 
horses,  I hope  to  be  better  acquainted  with  them  hereafter. 
‘ Bray,  sir,’  said  I,  to  one  of  the  liveried  scoundrels,  4 whom 


46 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


do  you  serve?’  'Major  Lincoln,  of  Ravenscliffe,  ’ said  he, 
with  a look  as  impudent  as  if  he  could  have  said,  like  you 
and  I,  his  sacred  majesty  the  king.  That ’s  the  answer  of 
the  servants  of  your  ten-thousand-a-year  men  ! Now,  if 
any  fool  had  been  asked  such  a question,  his  answer  would 
have  been,  craven  dog  as  he  is,  ‘ Captain  Polwarth,  of  the 
47th  ’ ; leaving  the  inquirer,  though  it  should  even  be  some 
curious  maiden,  who  had  taken  a fancy  to  the  tout  ensemble 
of  my  outline,  in  utter  ignorance  that  there  is  such  a place 
in  the  world  as  Polwarth  Hall  ! ” 

During  this  voluble  speech,  which  was  interrupted  by 
sundry  efforts  to  regain  the  breath  lost  in  the  ascent,  Lionel 
shook  his  friend  cordially  by  the  hand,  and  attempted  to 
express  his  own  pleasure  at  the  meeting.  The  failure  of 
wind,  however,  which  was  a sort  of  besetting  sin  with  Cap- 
tain Polwarth,  had  now  compelled  him  to  pause,  and  gave 
time  to  Lionel  for  a reply. 

“ This  hill  is  the  last  place  where  I should  have  expected 
to  meet  you,”  he  said.  “ I took  it  for  granted  you  would 
not  be  stirring  till  nine  or  ten  at  least,  when  it  was  my 
intention  to  inquire  you  out,  and  to  give  you  a call  before  I 
paid  my  respects  to  the  commander-in-chief.” 

"Ah  ! you  may  thank  his  excellency,  the  ‘ Hon.  Thomas 
Gage,  governor  and  commander-in-chief  in  and  over  the  ! 
Province  of  Massachusetts  Bay,  and  vice-admiral  of  the 
same,’  as  he  styles  himself  in  his  proclamations,  for  this 
especial  favor ; though  between  ourselves,  Leo,  he  is  about 
as  much  governor  over  the  province,  as  he  is  owner  of  those 
hunters  you  have  just  landed.” 

‘ ‘ But  why  am  I to  thank  him  for  this  interview  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Why  ! look  about  you,  and  tell  me  what  you  behold — 
nothing  but  fog — nay,  I see  there  is  a steeple,  and  yonder 
is  the  smoking  sea,  and  here  are  the  chimneys  of  Hancock’s 
house  beneath  us,  smoking,  too,  as  if  their  rebellious  master 
were  at  home,  and  preparing  his  feed  ! but  everything  in 
sight  is  essentially  smoky,  and  there  is  a natural  aversion, 
in  us  epicures,  to  smoke.  Nature  dictates  that  a man  who 
has  as  much  to  do  in  a day,  in  carrying  himself  about,  as 
your  humble  servant,  should  not  cut  his  rest  too  abruptly  in 


%ioncl  Xincoln 


47 


the  morning.  But  the  honorable  Thomas,  govornor  and 
vice-admiral,  etc. , has  ordered  us  under  arms  with  the  sun 
— officers  as  well  as  men  ! ’ ’ 

‘‘Surely  that  is  no  great  hardship  to  a soldier/ * returned 
Lionel;  “and  moreover,  it  seems  to  agree  with  you  mar- 
vellously. Now  I look  again,  Polwarth,  I am  amazed. 
Surely  you  are  not  in  a light-infantry  jacket ! ” 

“Certes — what  is  there  in  that  so  wonderful  ? ” returned 
the  other,  with  great  gravity.  “ Don’t  I become  the  dress  ? 
or  is  it  the  dress  that  does  not  adorn  me,  that  you  look  ready 
to  die  with  mirth  ? Laugh  it  out,  Leo.  I am  used  to  it 
these  three  days  ; but  what  is  there,  after  all,  so  remarkable 
in  Peter  Polwarth’ s commanding  a company  of  light  infantry  ? 
Am  I not  just  five  feet,  six  and  one  eighth  of  an  inch  ? — the 
precise  height ! ” 

“You  appear  to  have  been  so  accurate  in  your  longitudi- 
nal admeasurement,  that  you  must  carry  one  of  Harrison’s 
timepieces  in  your  pocket ; did  it  ever  suggest  itself  to  you 
to  use  a quadrant  also  ? ’ ’ 

“For  my  latitude  ! I understand  you,  Leo;  because  I 
am  shaped  a little  like  mother  earth,  does  it  argue  that  I 
cannot  command  a light-infantry  company  ? ’ ’ 

“Ay,  even  as  Joshua  commanded  the  sun.  But  the 
stopping  of  the  planet  itself  is  not  a greater  miracle,  in  my 
eyes,  than  to  see  you  in  that  attire.” 

“Well,  then,  the  mystery  shall  be  explained,  but  first 
let  us  be  seated  on  this  beacon,”  said  Captain  Polwarth, 
establishing  himself  with  great  method  in  the  place  so  lately 
occupied  by  the  attenuated  form  of  the  stranger.  ‘ ‘ A true 
soldier  husbands  his  resources  for  a time  of  need  ; that 
word,  husbands,  brings  me  at  once  to  the  point — I am  in 
love.” 

“ That  is  surprising  ! ” 

“ But  what  is  much  more  so,  I would  fain  be  married.” 

“ It  must  be  a woman  of  no  mean  endowments  that  could 
excite  such  desires  in  Captain  Polwarth,  of  the  47th,  and  of 
Polwarth  Hall ! ” 

“ She  is  a woman  of  great  qualifications,  Major  Lincoln,” 
said  the  lover,  with  a sudden  gravity  that  indicated  his 


48 


%ioncl  Xincotn 


gayety  of  manner  was  not  entirely  natural.  “ In  figure  she 
may  be  said  to  be  done  to  a turn.  When  she  is  grave,  she 
walks  with  the  stateliness  of  a show-beef ; when  she  runs, 

’t  is  with  the  activity  of  a turkey  ; and  when  at  rest,  I can 
only  compare  her  to  a dish  of  venison — savory,  delicate,  and 
what  one  can  never  get  enough  of.  ’ ’ 

“ You  have,  to  adopt  your  own  metaphors,  given  such  a 
‘ rare  ’ sketch  of  her  person,  I am  ‘ burning  ’ to  hear  some- 
thing of  her  mental  qualifications.” 

“My  metaphors  are  not  poetical,  perhaps,  but  they  are 
the  first  that  offer  themselves  to  my  mind,  and  they  are 
natural.  Her  accomplishments  exceed  her  native  gifts 
greatly.  In  the  first  place,  she  is  witty  ; in  the  second,  she 
is  as  impertinent  as  the  devil ; and  in  the  third,  as  inveterate 
a little  traitor  to  King  George  as  there  is  in  all  Boston.’ ’ 

“ These  are  strange  recommendations  to  your  favor  ! ” 

“The  most  infallible  of  all  recommendations.  They  are 
piquant,  like  savory  sauces,  which  excite  the  appetite,  and 
season  the  dish.  Now  her  treason  (for  it  amounts  to  that 
in  fact)  is  like  olives,  and  gives  a gusto  to  the  generous  port 
of  my  loyalty.  Her  impertinence  is  oil  to  the  cold  salad  of 
my  modesty,  and  her  acid  wit  mingles  with  the  sweetness  of 
my  temperament,  in  that  sort  of  pleasant  combination  with 
which  sweet  and  sour  blend  in  sherbet.” 

‘ ‘ It  would  be  idle  for  me  to  gainsay  the  charms  of  such  a 
woman,”  returned  Lionel,  a good  deal  amused  with  the  \ 
droll  mixture  of  seriousness  and  humor  in  the  other’s  ' 
manner;  “now,  for  her  connection  with  the  light  infantry 
— she  is  not  of  the  light  corps  of  her  own  sex,  Polwarth  ? ” 
“Pardon  me,  Major  Lincoln  ; I cannot  joke  on  this  sub- 
ject. Miss  Danforth  is  of  one  of  the  best  families  in 
Boston.” 

“ Danforth  ! not  Agnes,  surely  ! ” 

“The  very  same!”  exclaimed  Polwarth,  in  surprise; 

4 ‘ what  do  you  know  of  her  ? ” 

‘ ‘ Only  that  she  is  a sort  of  cousin  of  my  own,  and  that 
we  are  inmates  of  the  same  house.  We  bear  equal  afanit)^ 
to  Mrs.  Techmere,  and  the  good  lady  has  insisted  that  I 
shall  make  my  home  in  Tremont  street.” 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


49 


“I  rejoice  to  hear  it!  At  all  events,  our  intimacy  may 
now  be  improved  to  some  better  purpose  than  eating  and 
drinking.  But  to  the  point ; there  were  certain  damnable 
innuendoes  getting  into  circulation  concerning  my  propor- 
tions, which  I considered  it  prudent  to  look  down  at  once.” 
“ In  order  to  do  which,  you  had  only  to  look  thinner.’ ’ 

‘ ‘ And  do  I not,  in  this  appropriate  dress  ? To  be  perfectly 
serious  with  you,  Leo — for  to  you  I can  freely  unburden 
myself — you  know  what  a set  we  are  in  the  47th  ; let  them 
once  fasten  an  opprobrious  term  or  a nickname  on  you,  and 
you  take  it  to  the  grave,  be  it  ever  so  burdensome.” 

“There  is  a way,  certainly,  to  check  ungentleman-like 
liberties,”  said  Lionel,  gravely. 

“ Poh  ! poh  ! a man  would  n’t  wish  to  fight  about  a pound 
more  or  a pound  less  of  fat ! Still,  the  name  is  a great  deal, 
and  first  impressions  are  everything.  Now,  who  ever  thinks 
of  Grand  Cairo  as  a village  ? of  the  Grand  Turk  and  Great 
Mogul  as  little  boys?  or  who  would  believe,  by  hearsay,  that 
Captain  Folwarth,  of  the  light  infantry,  could  weigh  one 
hundred  and  eighty  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Add  twenty  to  it.  ’ ’ 

“ Not  a pound  more,  as  I am  a sinner.  I was  weighed  in 
the  presence  of  the  whole  mess  no  later  than  last  week,  since 
when  I have  rather  lost  than  gained  an  ounce,  for  this  early 
rising  is  no  friend  to  a thriving  condition.  ’T  was  in  my 
night-gown,  you  ’ll  remember,  Leo,  for  we,  who  tally  so 
often,  can’t  afford  to  throw  in  boots  and  buckles,  and  all 
those  sorts  of  things,  like  your  feather-weights.” 

“ But  I marvel  how  Nesbitt  was  induced  to  consent  to  the 
appointment,”  said  Lionel  ; “ he  loves  a little  display.” 

“ I am  your  man  for  that,”  interrupted  the  captain  ; “we 
are  embodied,  you  know,  and  I make  more  display,  if  that  be 
what  you  require,  than  any  captain  in  the  corps.  But  I will 
whisper  a secret  in  your  ear.  There  has  been  a nasty  busi- 
ness here  lately,  in  which  the  47th  has  gained  no  new  laurels 
— a matter  of  tarring  and  feathering,  about  an  old  rusty 
musket.” 

“ I have  heard  something  of  the  affair  already,”  returned 
Lionel,  “ and  was  grieved  to  find  the  men  justifying  some  of 


5° 


Xlonel  Xtncoln 


their  own  brutal  conduct  last  night  by  the  example  of  their 
commander.” 

“ Mum — ’t  is  a delicate  matter — well,  that  tar  has  brought 
the  colonel  into  particularly  bad  odor  in  Boston,  especially 
among  the  women,  in  whose  good  graces  we  are  all  of  us  lower 
than  I have  ever  known  scarlet  coats  to  stand  before.  Why, 
Leo,  the  Mohairs  are  altogether  the  better  men  here  ! But 
there  is  not  an  officer  in  the  whole  army  who  has  made  more 
friends  in  the  place  than  your  humble  servant.  I have 
availed  myself  of  my  popularity,  which  just  now  is  no  tri- 
fling thing,  and  partly  by  promises,  and  partly  by  secret 
interest,  I have  the  company  ; to  which,  you  know,  my  rank 
in  the  regiment  gives  me  an  undoubted  title.” 

‘ ‘ A perfectly  satisfactory  explanation  ; a most  commend- 
able ambition  on  your  part,  and  a certain  symptom  that  the 
peace  is  not  to  be  disturbed  ; for  Gage  would  never  permit 
such  an  arrangement,  had  he  any  active  operations  in  his 
eye.” 

‘ ‘ Why,  there  I think  you  are  more  than  half  right ; these 
Yankees  have  been  talking,  and  resolving,  and  approbating 
their  resolves,  as  they  call  it,  these  ten  years  past ; and  what 
does  it  all  amount  to  ? To  be  sure,  things  grow  worse  and 
worse  every  day  ; but  Jonathan  is  an  enigma  to  me.  Now 
you  know,  when  we  were  in  the  cavalry  together, — God  for- 
give me  the  suicide  I committed  in  exchanging  into  the  foot, 
which  I never  should  have  done,  could  I have  found  in  all 
England  such  a thing  as  an  easy  goer  or  safe  leaper, — but 
then,  if  the  Commons  took  offence  at  a new  tax,  or  a stag- 
nation in  business,  why,  they  got  together  in  mobs,  and 
burnt  a house  or  two,  frightened  a magistrate,  and  perhaps 
hustled  a constable  ; then  in  we  come  at  a hand  gallop,  you 
know,  flourished  our  swords,  and  scattered  the  ragged  devils 
to  the  four  winds  ; then  the  courts  did  the  rest,  leaving  us  a 
cheap  victory  at  the  expense  of  a little  wind,  which  was 
amply  compensated  by  an  increased  appetite  for  dinner.  But 
here  it  is  altogether  a different  sort  of  thing.” 

‘ ‘ And  what  are  the  most  alarming  symptoms,  just  now,  in 
the  colonies  ? ” asked  Major  Lincoln,  with  a sensible  interest 
in  the  subject. 


Xionel  Xlncoln 


51 


“ They  refuse  their  natural  aliment  to  uphold  what  they 
call  their  principles;  the  women  abjure  tea,  and  the  men 
abandon  their  fisheries  ! There  has  been  hardly  such  a thing 
as  even  a wild  duck  brought  into  the  market  this  spring,  in 
consequence  of  the  Port  Bill,  and  yet  they  grow  more  stub- 
born every  day.  If  it  should  come  to  blows,  however,  thank 
God  ! we  are  strong  enough  to  open  a passage  for  ourselves 
to  any  part  of  the  continent  where  provisions  may  be  plentier  ; 
and  I hear  more  troops  are  already  on  the  way.” 

“If  it  should  come  to  blows,  which  Heaven  forbid,  ” said 
Major  Lincoln,  “we  shall  be  besieged  where  we  now  are.” 
“Besieged  ! ” exclaimed  Polwarth,  in  evident  alarm  ; “if 
I thought  there  was  the  least  prospect  of  such  a calamity,  I 
would  sell  out  to-morrow.  It  is  bad  enough  now  ; our  mess- 
table  is  never  decently  covered,  but  if  there  should  come  a 
siege,  ’t  would  be  absolute  starvation.  No,  no,  Leo,  their 
minute-men,  and  their  long- tailed  rabble,  would  hardly  think 
of  besieging  four  thousand  British  soldiers  with  a fleet  to 
back  them.  Four  thousand  ! if  the  regiments  I hear  named 
are  actually  on  the  way,  there  will  be  eight  thousand  of  us — 
as  good  men  as  ever  wore — ’ ’ 

“ Fight-infantry  jackets/’  interrupted  Lionel.  “ But  the 
regiments  are  certainly  coming  ; Clinton,  Burgoyne,  and 
Howe  had  an  audience  to  take  leave,  on  the  same  day  with 
myself.  The  service  is  exceedingly  popular  with  the  king, 
and  our  reception,  of  course,  was  most  gracious ; though  I 
thought  the  eye  of  royalty  looked  on  me  as  if  it  remembered 
one  or  two  of  my  juvenile  votes  in  the  House,  on  the  subject 
of  these  unhappy  dissensions.’’ 

“ You  voted  against  the  Port  Bill,”  said  Polwarth,  “out 
of  regard  to  me  ? ” 

“No;  there  I joined  the  ministry.  The  conduct  of  the 
people  of  Boston  had  provoked  the  measure,  and  there  were 
hardly  two  minds  in  Parliament  on  that*question.” 

“Ah  ! Major  Lincoln,  you  are  a happy  man,”  said  the 
captain;  “a  seat  in  Parliament  at  five  and  twenty!  I 
must  think  that  I should  prefer  just  such  an  occupation  to 
all  others  ; the  very  name  is  taking — a seat ! You  have  two 
members  for  your  borough  ; who  fills  the  second  now  ? ’ ’ 


U&WEitSfTY  of  turn 


5* 


Xionel  Xincolrt 


“ Say  nothing  on  that  subject,  I entreat  you,’’  whispered 
Lionel,  pressing  the  arm  of  the  other  as  he  rose  ; “ ’t  is  not 
filled  by  him  who  should  occupy  it,  as  you  know.  Shall  we 
descend  to  the  common  ? there  are  many  friends  that  I could 
wish  to  see  before  the  bell  calls  us  to  church.” 

“Yes;  this  is  a church-going,  or  rather  a meeting-going 
place ; for  most  of  the  good  people  forswear  the  use  of  the 
word  church,  as  we  abjure  the  supremacy  of  the  pope,” 
returned  Polwarth,  following  in  his  companion’s  footsteps. 
‘ ‘ I never  think  of  attending  any  of  their  schism  shops,  for  I 
would  any  day  rather  stand  sentinel  over  a baggage  wagon 
than  stand  up  to  hear  one  of  their  prayers.  I can  do  very 
well  at  the  King’s  Chapel,  as  they  call  it ; for  when  I am 
once  comfortably  fixed  on  my  knees,  I make  out  as  well  as 
my  lord  archbishop  of  Canterbury ; though  it  has  always 
been  matter  of  surprise  to  me  how  any  man  can  find  breath 
to  go  through  their  work  of  a morning.” 

They  descended  the  hill,  as  Lionel  replied,  and  their 
forms  were  soon  blended  with  those  of  twenty  others,  who 
wore  scarlet  coats,  on  the  common. 


CHAPTER  V. 

“ For  us,  and  for  our  tragedy, 

Here  stooping  to  your  clemency, 

We  beg  your  hearing  patiently.’ ’ 

Hamlet . 

WE  must  now  carry  the  reader  back  a century,  in 
order  to  clear  our  tale  of  every  appearance  of 
ambiguity.  Reginald  Eincoln  was  a cadet 
of  an  extremely  ancient  and  wealthy  family, 
whose  possessions  were  suffered  to  continue  as  appendages 
to  a baronetcy,  throughout  all  the  changes  which  marked 
the  eventful  periods  of  the  commonwealth  and  the  usurpa- 
tion of  Cromwell.  He  had  himself,  however,  inherited  little 
more  than  a morbid  sensibility,  which,  even  in  that  age,  ap- 
peared to  be  a sort  of  heirloom  to  his  family.  While  still  a 
young  man,  he  had  married  a woman  to  whom  he  was  much 
attached,  who  died  in  giving  birth  to  her  first  child.  The 
grief  of  the  husband  took  a direction  towards  religion  ; but 
unhappily,  instead  of  deriving  from  his  researches  the  heal- 
ing consolation  with  which  our  faith  abounds,  his  mind 
became  soured  by  the  prevalent  but  discordant  views  of  the 
attributes  of  the  Deity  ; and  the  result  of  his  conversion  was 
to  leave  him  an  ascetic  puritan  and  an  obstinate  predestina- 
rian.  That  such  a man,  finding  but  little  to  connect  him 
with  his  native  country,  .should  revolt  at  the  impure  prac- 
tices of  the  court  of  Charles,  is  not  surprising  ; and  accord- 
ingly > though  not  at  all  implicated  in  the  guilt  of  the 
regicides,  he  departed  for  the  religious  province  of  Massa- 
chusetts Bay,  in  the  first  years  of  the  reign  of  that  merry 
prince. 

It  was  not  difficult  for  a man  of  the  rank  and  reputed 


54 


Xionel  Xlncolrt 


sanctity  of  Reginald  Lincoln  to  obtain  both  honorable  and 
lucrative  employments  in  the  plantations,  and,  after  the  first 
glow  of  his  awakened  ardor  in  behalf  of  spiritual  matters 
had  a little  abated,  he  failed  not  to  improve  a due  portion 
of  his  time  by  a commendable  attention  to  temporal  things. 

To  the  day  of  his  death,  however,  he  continued  a gloomy, 
austere,  and  bigoted  religionist,  seemingly  too  regardless  of 
the  vanities  of  this  world  to  permit  his  pure  imagination  to 
mingle  with  its  dross,  even  while  he  submitted  to  discharge 
its  visible  duties.  Notwithstanding  this  elevation  of  mind, 
his  son,  at  the  decease  of  his  father,  found  himself  in  the 
possession  of  many  goodly  effects  ; which  were,  questionless, 
the  accumulations  of  a neglected  use  during  the  days  of  his 
sublimated  progenitor. 

Young  Lionel  so  far  followed  in  the  steps  of  his  worthy 
parent  as  to  continue  gathering  honors  and  riches  into  his 
lap  ; though,  owing  to  an  early  disappointment,  and  the  in- 
heritance of  the  ‘ ‘ heirloom  ’ ’ already  mentioned,  it  was  late 
in  life  before  he  found  a partner  to  share  his  happiness. 
Contrary  to  all  the  usual  calculations  that  are  made  on  the 
choice  of  a man  of  self-denial,  he  was  then  united  to  a youth- 
ful and  gay  Kpiscopalian,  who  had  little,  beside  her  ex- 
quisite beauty  and  good  blood  to  recommend  her.  By  this 
lady  he  had  four  children,  three  sons  and  a daughter,  when 
he  also  was  laid  in  the  vault  by  the  side  of  his  deceased  par- 
ent. The  eldest  of  these  sons  was  yet  a boy  when  he  was 
called  to  the  mother  country  to  inherit  the  estates  and  hon- 
ors of  his  family.  The  second,  named  Reginald,  who  was 
bred  to  arms,  married,  had  a son,  and  lost  his  life  in  the  j 
wilds  where  he  was  required  to  serve,  before  he  was  five-and- 
twenty.  The  third  was  the  grandfather  of  Agnes  Danforth, 
and  the  daughter  was  Mrs.  Lechmere. 

The  family  of  Lincoln,  considering  the  shortness  of  their 
marriages,  had  been  extremely  prolific  while  in  the  colonies, 
according  to  that  wise  allotment  of  Providence,  which  ever 
seems  to  regulate  the  functions  of  our  nature  by  our  wants  ; 
but  the  instant  it  was  reconveyed  to  the  populous  island  of 
Britain,  it  entirely  lost  its  reputation  for  fruitfulness.  Sir 
Lionel  lived  to  a good  age,  married,  but  died  childless ; not- 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


S5 


withstanding,  when  his  body  lay  in  state,  it  was  under  a 
splendid  roof,  and  in  halls  so  capacious  that  they  would  have 
afforded  comfortable  shelter  to  the  whole  family  of  Priam. 

By  this  fatality  it  became  necessary  to  cross  the  Atlantic 
once  more  to  find  an  heir  to  the  wide  domains  of  Ravens- 
cliffe,  and  to  one  of  the  oldest  baronetcies  in  the  kingdom. 

We  have  planted  and  reared  this  genealogical  tree  to  but 
little  purpose,  if  it  be  necessary  to  tell  the  reader  that  the 
individual  who  had  now  become  the  head  of  his  race  was  the 
orphan  son  of  the  deceased  officer.  He  was  married,  and 
the  father  of  one  blooming  boy,  when  this  elevation,  which 
was  not  unlooked-for,  occurred.  Leaving  his  wife  and  child 
behind  him,  Sir  Lionel  immediately  proceeded  to  England 
to  assert  his  rights  and  secure  his  possessions.  As  he  was 
the  nephew  and  acknowledged  heir  of  the  late  incumbent, 
he  met  with  no  opposition  to  the  more  important  parts  of 
his  claims.  Across  the  character  and  fortunes  of  this  gentle- 
man, however,  a dark  cloud  had  early  passed,  which  pre- 
vented the  common  eye  from  reading  the  events  of  his  life, 
like  those  of  other  men,  in  its  open  and  intelligible  move- 
ments. After  his  accession  to  fortune  and  rank,  but  little 
was  known  of  him,  even  by  his  earliest  and  most  intimate 
associates.  It  was  rumored,  it  is  true,  that  he  had  been  de- 
tained in  England  for  two  years  by  a vexatious  contention 
for  a petty  appendage  to  his  large  estates,  a controversy 
which  was,  however,  known  to  have  been  decided  in  his 
favor,  before  he  was  recalled  to  Boston  by  the  sudden  death 
of  his  wife.  This  calamity  befell  him  during  the  period 
when  the  war  of  ’56  was  raging  in  its  greatest  violence  ; a 
time  when  the  energies  of  the  colonies  were  directed  to  the 
assistance  of  the  mother  country,  who,  according  to  the  lan- 
guage of  the  day,  was  zealously  endeavoring  to  defeat  the 
ambitious  views  of  the  French,  in  this  hemisphere  ; or,  what 
amounted  to  the  same  thing  in  effect,  in  struggling  to  ad- 
vance her  own. 

It  was  an  interesting  period,  when  the  mild  and  peaceful 
colonists  were  seen  to  shake  off  their  habits  of  forbearance, 
and  to  enter  into  the  strife  with  an  alacrity  and  spirit  that 
soon  emulated  the  utmost  daring  of  their  nrore  practised 


5* 


Xtotte I Xlncolrt 


confederates.  To  the  amazement  of  all  who  knew  his  for- 
tunes, Sir  Lionel  Lincoln  was  seen  to  embark  in  many  of 
the  most  desperate  adventures  that  distinguished  the  war 
with  a hardihood  that  rather  sought  death  than  courted 
honor.  He  had  been,  like  his  father,  trained  to  arms,  but 
the  regiment  in  which  he  held  the  commission  of  lieutenant- 
colonel,  was  serving  his  master  in  the  most  eastern  of  his 
dominions,  while  the  uneasy  .soldier  was  thus  rushing  from 
point  to  point,  hazarding  his  life,  and  more  than  once  shed- 
ding his  blood,  in  the  enterprises  that  signalized  the  war  in 
the  most  western. 

This  dangerous  career,  however,  was  at  length  suddenly 
and  mysteriously  checked.  By  the  influence  of  some  pow- 
erful agency,  that  was  never  explained,  the  baronet  was  in- 
duced to  take  his  son,  and  embark  once  more  for  the  land 
of  their  fathers,  from  which  the  former  had  never  been 
known  to  return.  For  many  years,  all  those  inquiries 
which  the  laudable  curiosity  of  the  townsmen  and  towns- 
women of  Mrs.  Lechmere  prompted  them  to  make,  con- 
cerning the  fate  of  her  nephew  (and  we  leave  each  of  our 
readers  to  determine  their  numbers),  were  answered  by  that 
lady  with  the  most  courteous  reserve,  and  sometimes  with 
such  exhibitions  of  emotion,  as  we  have  already  attempted 
to  describe  in  her  first  interview  with  his  son.  But  constant 
dropping  will  wear  away  a stone.  At  first  there  were  ru- 
mors that  the  baronet  had  committed  treason,  and  had  been 
compelled  to  exchange  Ravenscliffe  for  a less  comfortable 
dwelling  in  the  Tower  of  London.  This  report  was  suc- 
ceeded by  that  of  an  unfortunate  private  marriage  with  one 
of  the  princesses  of  the  house  of  Brunswick  ; but  a refer- 
ence to  the  calendars  of  the  day  showed  that  there  was  no 
lady  of  a suitable  age  disengaged ; and  this  amour,  so 
creditable  to  the  provinces,  was  necessarily  abandoned. 
Finally,  the  assertion  was  made,  with  much  more  of  the 
confidence  of  truth,  that  the  unhappy  Sir  Lionel  was  the 
tenant  of  a private  madhouse. 

The  instant  this  rumor  was  circulated,  a film  fell  from 
every  eye,  and  none  were  so  blind  as  not  to  have  seen  indi- 
cations of  insanity  in  the  baronet  long  before  ; and  not  a few 


Xione l Xincoln 


57 


were  enabled  to  trace  his  legitimate  right  to  lunacy  through 
the  hereditary  bias  of  his  race.  To  account  for  its  sud- 
den exhibition  was  a more  difficult  task,  and  exercised  the 
ingenuity  of  an  exceedingly  ingenious  people  for  a long 
period. 

The  more  sentimental  part  of  the  community,  such  as  the 
maidens  and  bachelors,  and  those  votaries  of  Hymen  who 
had  twice  and  thrice  proved  the  solacing  power  of  the  God, 
did  not  fail  to  ascribe  the  misfortune  of  the  baronet  to  the 
unhappy  loss  of  his  wife  ; a lady  to  whom  he  was  known 
to  be  most  passionately  attached.  A few,  the  relics  of  the 
good  old  school,  under  whose  intellectual  sway  the  incarnate 
persons  of  so  many  godless  dealers  in  necromancy  had  been 
made  to  expiate  their  abominations,  pointed  to  the  ca- 
lamity as  a merited  punishment  on  the  backslidings  of  a 
family  that  had  once  known  the  true  faith  ; while  a third, 
and  by  no  means  a small  class,  composed  of  those  worthies 
who  braved  the  elements  in  King  Street,  in  quest  of  filthy 
lucre,  did  not  hesitate  to  say,  that  the  sudden  acquisition  of 
vast  wealth  had  driven  many  a better  man  mad.  But  the 
time  was  approaching,  when  the  apparently  irresistible  pro- 
pensity to  speculate  on  the  fortunes  of  a fellow-creature  was 
made  to  yield  to  more  important  considerations.  The  hour 
soon  arrived  when  the  merchant  forgot  his  momentary  in- 
terests to  look  keenly  into  the  distant  effects  that  were  to 
succeed  the  movements  of  the  day  ; which  taught  the  fanatic 
the  wholesome  lesson,  that  Providence  smiled  most  benefi- 
cently on  those  who  most  merited,  by  their  own  efforts,  its 
favors  ; and  which  even  purged  the  breast  of  the  senti- 
mentalist of  its  sickly  tenant,  to  be  succeeded  by  the  healthy 
and  ennobling  passion  of  love  of  country. 

It  was  about  this  period  that  the  contest  for  principle  be- 
tween the  Parliament  of  Great  Britain  and  the  colonies  of 
North  America  commenced,  that  in  time  led  to  those  impor- 
tant results  which  have  established  a new  era  in  political 
liberty,  as  well  as  a mighty  empire.  A brief  glance  at  the 
nature  of  this  controversy  may  assist  in  rendering  many  of 
the  allusions  in  this  legend  more  intelligible  to  some  of  its 
readers. 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


58 


The  increasing  wealth  of  the  provinces  had  attracted  the 
notice  of  the  English  ministry  so  early  as  the  year  1763. 

In  that  year  the  first  effort  to  raise  a revenue  which  was  to 
meet  the  exigencies  of  the  empire,  was  attempted  by  the 
passage  of  a law  to  impose  a duty  on  certain  stamped 
paper,  which  was  made  necessary  to  give  validity  to  con- 
tracts. This  method  of  raising  a revenue  was  not  new  in 
itself,  nor  was  the  imposition  heavy  in  amount.  But  the 
Americans,  not  less  sagacious  than  wary,  perceived  at  a 
glance  the  importance  of  the  principles  involved  in  the 
admission  of  a right  as  belonging  to  anybody  to  lay  taxes, 
in  which  they  were  not  represented.  The  question  was  not 
without  its  difficulties,  but  the  direct  and  plain  argument 
was  clearly  on  the  side  of  the  colonists.  Aware  of  the 
force  of  their  reasons,  and  perhaps  a little  conscious  of  the 
strength  of  their  numbers,  they  approached  the  subject  with 
a spirit  which  betokened  this  consciousness,  but  with  a 
coolness  that  denoted  the  firmness  of  their  purpose.  After 
a struggle  of  nearly  two  years,  during  which  the  law  was 
rendered  completely  profitless  by  the  unanimity  among  the 
people,  as  well  as  by  a species  of  good-humored  violence 
that  rendered  it  exceedingly  inconvenient,  and  perhaps  a 
little  dangerous,  to  the  servants  of  the  crown  to  exercise 
their  obnoxious  functions,  the  ministry  abandoned  the 
measure.  But,  at  the  same  time  that  the  law  was  repealed, 
the  Parliament  maintained  its  right  to  bind  the  colonies  in 
all  cases  whatsoever,  by  recording  a resolution  to  that  effect 
in  its  journals. 

That  an  empire  whose  several  parts  were  separated  by  ;j 
oceans,  and  whose  interests  were  so  often  conflicting,  should 
become  unwieldy,  and  fall,  in  time,  by  its  own  weight,  was 
an  event  that  all  wise  men  must  have  expected  to  arrive. 
But  that  the  Americans  did  not  contemplate  such  a division 
at  that  early  day,  may  be  fairly  inferred,  if  there  were  no 
other  testimony  in  the  matter,  by  the  quiet  and  submission 
that  pervaded  the  colonies  the  instant  the  repeal  of  the 
Stamp  Act  was  known.  Had  any  desire  for  premature 
independence  existed,  the  Parliament  had  unwisely  fur- 
nished abundant  fuel  to  feed  the  flame,  in  the  very  reap- 


Xionel  Xincoln 


59 


lution  already  mentioned.  But,  satisfied  with  the  solid 
advantages  they  had  secured,  peaceful  in  their  habits,  and 
loyal  in  their  feelings,  the  colonists  laughed  at  the  empty 
dignity  of  their  self-constructed  rulers,  while  they  congrat- 
ulated each  other  on  their  own  more  substantial  success. 
If  the  besotted  servants  of  the  king  had  learned  wisdom 
by  the  past,  the  storm  would  have  blown  over,  and  another 
age  would  have  witnessed  the  events  which  we  are  about 
to  relate.  Things  were  hardly  suffered,  however,  to  return 
to  their  old  channels  again,  before  the  ministry  attempted 
to  revive  their  claims  by  new  impositions.  The  design  to 
raise  a revenue  had  been  defeated  in  the  case  of  the  Stamp 
Act,  by  the  refusal  of  the  colonists  to  use  the  paper  ; but 
in  the  present  instance,  expedients  were  adopted,  which,  it 
was  thought,  would  be  more  effective — as  in  the  case  of 
tea,  where  the  duty  was  paid  by  the  East  India  Company 
in  the  first  instance,  and  the  exaction  was  to  be  made  on 
the  Americans,  through  their  appetites.  These  new  in- 
novations on  their  rights  were  met  by  the  colonists  with 
the  same  promptitude,  but  with  much  more  of  seriousness, 
than  in  the  former  instances.  All  the  provinces  south  of 
the  Great  Lakes  acted  in  concert  on  this  occasion ; and 
preparations  were  made  to  render  not  only  their  remon- 
strances and  petitions  more  impressive  by  a unity  of  action, 
but  their  more  serious  struggles  also,  should  an  appeal  to 
force  become  necessary.  The  tea  was  stored  or  sent  back 
to  England,  in  most  cases ; though,  in  the  town  of  Boston, 
a concurrence  of  circumstances  led  to  the  violent  measure, 
on  the  part  of  the  people,  of  throwing  a large  quantity  of 
the  offensive  article  into  the  sea.  To  punish  this  act,  which 
took  place  in  the  early  part  of  1774,  the  port  of  Boston  was 
closed,  and  different  laws  were  enacted  in  Parliament,  which 
were  intended  to  bring  the  people  back  to  a sense  of  their 
dependence  on  the  British  power. 

Although  the  complaints  of  the  colonists  were  hushed 
during  the  short  interval  that  had  succeeded  the  suspension 
of  the  efforts  of  the  ministry  to  tax  them,  the  feelings  of 
alienation,  which  were  engendered  by  the  attempt  had  not 
time  to  be  lost  before  the  obnoxious  subject  was  revived  in 


6o 


%ioncl  Lincoln 


its  new  shape.  From  1763  to  the  period  of  our  tale,  all 
the  younger  part  of  the  population  of  the  provinces  had 
grown  into  manhood,  but  they  were  no  longer  imbued  with 
that  profound  respect  for  the  mother  country  which  had 
been  transmitted  from  their  ancestors,  or  with  that  deep 
loyalty  to  the  crown  that  usually  characterizes  a people 
who  view  the  pageant  of  royalty  through  the  medium  of 
distance.  Still,  those  who  guided  the  feelings  and  con- 
trolled the  judgments  of  the  Americans  were  averse  to  a 
dismemberment  of  the  empire,  a measure  which  they  con- 
tinued to  believe  both  impolitic  and  unnatural. 

In  the  meantime,  though  equally  reluctant  to  .shed  blood, 
the  adverse  parties  prepared  for  that  final  struggle  which 
seemed  to  be  unavoidably  approaching.  The  situation  of 
the  colonies  was  now  so  peculiar,  that  it  may  be  doubted 
whether  history  furnishes  a precise  parallel.  Their  fealty 
to  the  prince  was  everywhere  acknowledged,  while  the  laws 
which  emanated  from  his  counsellors  were  sullenly  dis-  ; 
regarded  and  set  at  naught.  Each  province  possessed  its 
distinct  government,  and  in  most  of  them  the  political 
influence  of  the  crown  was  direct  and  great ; but  the  time  1 
had  arrived  when  it  was  superseded  by  a moral  feeling  that 
defied  the  machinations  and  intrigues  of  the  ministry. 
Such  of  the  provincial  legislatures  as  possessed  a majority  \ 
of  the  “Sons  of  Tibert}^,’’  as  they  who  resisted  the  uncon- 
stitutional attempts  of  the  ministry  were  termed,  elected 
delegates  to  meet  in  a general  congress  to  consult  on  the  <\ 
ways  and  means  of  effecting  the  common  objects.  In  one  : 
or  two  provinces,  where  the  inequality  of  representation 
afforded  a different  result,  the  people  supplied  the  deficien-  i 
cies  by  acting  in  their  original  capacity.  This  body,  meet- 
ing, unlike  conspirators,  with  the  fearless  confidence  of 
integrity,  and  acting  under  the  excitement  of  a revolution  i 
in  sentiment,  possessed  an  influence  which,  at  a later  day,  i 
has  been  denied  to  their  more  legally  constituted  successors.  | 
Their  recommendations  possessed  all  the  validity  of  laws,  j 
without  incurring  their  odium.  While,  as  the  organ  of 
their  fellow-subjects,  they  still  continued  to  petition  and 
remonstrate,  they  did  not  forget  to  oppose,  by  such  means  | 


Xioitel  Xincoln 


61 


as  were  then  thought  expedient,  the  oppressive  measures 
of  the  ministry. 

An  association  was  recommended  to  the  people,  for  those 
purposes  that  are  amply  expressed  in  the  three  divisions 
which  were  significantly  given  to  the  subjects,  in  calling 
them  by  the  several  names  of  ‘ ‘ non-importation, 9 ’ “non- 
exportation,” and  “non-consumption  resolutions.”  These 
negative  expedients  were  all  that  was  constitutionally  in 
their  power,  and,  throughout  the  whole  controversy,  there 
had  been  a guarded  care  not  to  exceed  the  limits  which  the 
laws  had  affixed  to  the  rights  of  the  subject.  Though  no 
overt  act  of  resistance  was  committed,  they  did  not,  how- 
ever, neglect  such  means  as  were  attainable,  to  be  prepared 
for  the  last  evil,  whenever  it  should  arrive.  In  this  man- 
ner, a feeling  of  resentment  and  disaffection  was  daily  in- 
creasing throughout  the  provinces,  while  in  Massachusetts 
Bay,  the  more  immediate  scene  of  our  story,  the  disorder 
in  the  body  politic  seemed  to  be  inevitably  gathering  to  its 
head. 

The  great  principles  of  the  controversy  had  been  blended, 
in  different  places,  with  various  causes  of  local  complaint, 
and  in  none  more  than  in  the  town  of  Boston.  The  in- 
habitants of  this  place  had  been  distinguished  for  an  early, 
open,  and  fearless  resistance  to  the  ministry.  An  armed 
force  had  long  been  thought  necessary  to  intimidate  this 
spirit,  to  effect  which  the  troops  were  drawn  from  different 
parts  of  the  provinces,  and  concentrated  in  this  devoted 
town.  Early  in  1774,  a military  man  was  placed  in  the 
executive  chair  of  the  province,  and  an  attitude  of  more 
determination  was  assumed  by  the  government.  One  of 
the  first  acts  of  this  gentleman,  who  held  the  high  station 
of  lieutenant-general,  and  who  commanded  all  the  forces 
of  the  king  in  America,  was  to  dissolve  the  colonial  as- 
sembly. About  the  same  time  a new  charter  was  sent 
from  England,  and  a material  change  was  contemplated  in 
the  polity  of  the  colonial  government.  From  this  moment 
the  power  of  the  king,  though  it  was  not  denied,  became 
suspended  in  the  province.  A provincial  congress  was 
elected,  and  assembled  within  seven  leagues  of  the  capital, 


62 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


where  they  continued,  from  time  to  time,  to  adopt  such 
measures  as  the  exigencies  of  the  time  were  thought  to 
render  necessary.  Men  were  enrolled,  disciplined,  and 
armed,  as  well  as  the  imperfect  means  of  the  colony  would 
allow.  These  troops,  who  were  no  more  than  the  elite  of 
the  inhabitants,  had  little  else  to  recommend  them  besides  j 
their  spirit,  and  their  manual  dexterity  with  fire-arms,  j 
From  the  expected  nature  of  their  service,  they  were  not 
unaptly  termed  “ minute-men.”  The  munitions  of  war 
were  seized,  and  hoarded  with  a care  and  diligence  that 
showed  the  character  of  the  impending  conflict. 

On  the  other  hand  General  Gage  adopted  a similar  course 
of  preparation  and  prevention,  by  fortifying  himself  in  the 
stronghold  which  he  possessed,  and  by  anticipating  the 
intentions  of  the  colonists,  in  their  attempts  to  form  maga- 
zines, whenever  it  was  in  his  power.  He  had  an  easy  task 
in  the  former,  both  from  the  natural  situation  of  the  place 
he  occupied,  and  the  species  of  force  he  commanded. 

Surrounded  by  broad  and  chiefly  by  deep  waters,  except 
at  one  extremely  narrow  point,  and  possessing  its  triple 
hills,  which  are  not  commanded  by  any  adjacent  eminences,  j 
the  peninsula  of  Boston  could,  with  a competent  garrison,  : 
easily  be  made  impregnable,  especially  when  aided  by  a 
superior  fleet.  The  works  erected  by  the  English  general 
were,  however,  by  no  means  of  magnitude  ; for  it  was  well 
known  that  the  whole  park  of  the  colonists  could  not  ex-  j 
ceed  some  dozen  pieces  of  field  artillery,  with  a small  bat- 
tering train  that  must  be  entirely  composed  of  old  and 
cumbrous  ship-guns.  Consequently,  when  Eionel  arrived 
in  Boston,  he  found  a few  batteries  thrown  up  on  the  emi- 
nences, some  of  which  were  intended  as  much  to  control  the 
town,  as  to  repel  an  enemy  from  without,  while  lines  were 
drawn  across  the  neck  which  communicated  with  the  main. 
The  garrison  consisted  of  something  less  than  five  thousand 
men,  besides  which  there  was  a fluctuating  force  of  seamen 
and  marines,  as  the  vessels  of  war  arrived  and  departed. 

All  this  time,  there  was  no  other  interruption  to  the  in- 
tercourse between  the  town  and  the  country,  than  such  as 
unavoidably  succeeded  the  stagnation  of  trade,  and  the  dis- 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


63 


trust  engendered  by  the  aspect  of  affairs.  Though  number- 
less families  had  deserted  their  homes,  many  known  whigs 
continued  to  dwell  in  their  habitations,  where  their  ears 
were  deafened  by  the  sounds  of  the  British  drums,  and 
where  their  spirits  were  but  too  often  galled  by  the  sneers 
of  the  officers,  on  the  uncouth  military  preparations  of  their 
countrymen.  Indeed,  an  impression  had  spread  further  than 
among  the  idle  and  thoughtless  youths  of  the  army,  that  the 
colonists  were  but  little  gifted  with  martial  qualities ; and 
many  of  their  best  friends  in  Europe  were  in  dread,  lest  an 
appeal  to  force  should  put  the  contested  points  forever  at 
rest,  by  proving  the  incompetency  of  the  Americans  to 
maintain  them  to  the  last  extremity. 

In  this  manner,  both  parties  stood  at  bay  ; the  people 
living  in  perfect  order  and  quiet,  without  the  administration 
of  law,  sullen,  vigilant,  and,  through  their  leaders,  secretly 
alert ; and  the  army,  gay,  haughty,  and  careless  of  the  con- 
sequences, though  far  from  being  oppressive  or  insolent,  un- 
til after  the  defeat  of  one  or  two  abortive  excursions  into 
the  country  in  quest  of  arms.  Each  hour,  however,  was 
rapidly  adding  to  the  disaffection  on  one  side,  and  to  the 
contempt  and  resentment  on  the  other,  through  numberless 
public  and  private  causes  that  belong  rather  to  history  than 
to  a legend  like  this.  All  extraordinary  occupations  were 
suspended,  and  men  awaited  the  course  of  things  in  anxious 
expectation.  It  was  known  that  the  Parliament,  instead  of 
retracting  their  political  errors,  had  imposed  new  restraints, 
and,  as  has  been  mentioned,  it  was  also  rumored  that 
regiments  and  fleets  were  on  their  way  to  enforce  them. 

How  long  a country  could  exist  in  such  a primeval  condi- 
tion remained  to  be  seen,  though  it  was  difficult  to  say  when 
or  how  it  was  to  terminate.  The  people  of  the  land  ap- 
peared to  slumber  ; but,  like  vigilant  and  wary  soldiers, 
they  might  be  said  to  sleep  on  their  arms  ; while  the  troops 
assumed,  each  day,  more  of  that  fearful  preparation  which 
gives,  even  to  the  trained  warrior,  a more  martial  aspect, 
though  both  parties  still  continued  to  manifest  a becoming 
reluctance  to  shed  blood. 


CHAPTER  VI. 


€i  Would  lie  were  fatter  ! but  I fear  him  not : 

Seldom  he  smiles  ; and  smiles  in  such  a sort, 

As  if  he  mocked  himself,  and  scorned  his  spirit 
That  could  be  moved  to  smile  at  anything.” 

Julius  Cczsar. 

IN  the  course  of  the  succeeding  week,  Lionel  acquired  a 
knowledge  of  many  minor  circumstances  relating  to 
the  condition  of  the  colonies,  which  may  be  easily  im- 
agined as  incidental  to  the  times,  but  which  would 
greatly  excel  our  limits  to  relate.  He  was  received  by  his 
brethren  in  arms  with  that  sort  of  cordiality  that  a rich,  high- 
spirited,  and  free,  if  not  a jovial  comrade,  was  certain  of 
meeting  among  men  who  lived  chiefly  for  pleasure  and  ap- 
pearance. Certain  indications  of  more  than  usually  impor- 
tant movements  were  discovered  among  the  troops  the  first 
day  of  the  week,  and  his  own  condition  in  the  army  wras  in 
some  measure  affected  by  the  changes.  Instead  of  joining 
his  particular  regiment,  he  was  ordered  to  hold  himself  in 
readiness  to  take  a command  in  the  light  corps,  which  had 
begun  its  drill  for  the  service  that  was  peculiar  to  such  troops.  ■ 
As  it  was  well  known  that  Boston  was  Major  Lincoln’s  place 
of  nativity,  the  commander-in-chief,  with  the  indulgence  and 
kindness  of  his  character,  granted  to  him,  however,  a short 
respite  from  duty,  in  order  that  he  might  indulge  in  the  feel-  j 
ings  natural  to  his  situation.  It  was  soon  generally  under- 
stood that  Major  Lincoln,  though  intending  to  serve  with  the  i 
army  in  America,  should  the  sad  alternative  of  an  appeal  to 
arms  become  necessary,  had  permission  to  amuse  himself  in 
such  a manner  as  he  saw  fit,  for  two  months  from  the  date 
of  his  arrival.  Those  who  affected  to  be  more  wTise  than  com- 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


65 


mon,  saw,  or  thought  they  saw,  in  this  arrangement,  a deep- 
laid  plan  on  the  part  of  Gage,  to  use  the  influence  and  address 
of  the  young  provincial  among  his  connections  and  natural 
friends,  to  draw  them  back  to  those  sentiments  of  loyalty 
which  it  was  feared  so  many  among  them  had  forgotten 
to  entertain.  But  it  was  the  characteristic  of  the  times  to 
attach  importance  to  trifling  incidents,  and  to  suspect  a 
concealed  policy  in  movements  which  emanated  only  in 
inclination. 

There  was  nothing,  however,  in  the  deportment  or  manner 
of  life  adopted  by  Lionel  to  justify  any  of  these  conjectures. 
He  continued  to  dwell  in  the  house  of  Mrs.  Leclimere  in 
person,  though,  unwilling  to  burden  the  hospitality  of  his 
aunt  too  heavily,  he  had  taken  lodgings  in  a dwelling  at  no 
great  distance,  where  his  servants  resided,  and  where  it  was 
generally  understood  that  his  visits  of  ceremony  and  friend- 
ship were  to  be  received.  Captain  Polwarth  did  not  fail  to 
complain  loudly  of  this  arrangement,  as  paralyzing  at  once 
all  the  advantages  he  had  anticipated  from  enjoying  the 
eiitree  to  the  dwelling  of  his  mistress,  in  the  right  of  his 
friend.  But  as  the  establishment  of  Lionel  was  supported 
with  much  of  that  liberality  which  was  becoming  in  a youth 
of  his  large  fortune,  the  exuberant  light-infantry  officer 
found  many  sources  of  consolation  in  the  change,  which 
could  not  have  existed  had  the  staid  Mrs.  Lechmere  presided 
over  the  domestic  department.  Lionel  and  Polwarth  had 
been  boys  together  at  the  same  school,  members  of  the  same 
college  at  Oxford,  and  subsequently,  for  many  years,  com- 
rades in  the  same  corps.  Though,  perhaps,  no  two  men  in 
their  regiment  were  more  essentially  different  in  mental  as 
well  as  physical  constitution,  yet  by  that  unaccountable  ca- 
price which  causes  us  to  like  our  opposites,  it  is  certain  that 
no  two  gentlemen  in  the  service  were  known  to  be  on  better 
terms,  or  to  maintain  a more  close  and  unreserved  intimacy. 
It  is  unnecessary  to  dilate  here  on  this  singular  friendship ; 
it  occurs  every  day,  between  men  still  more  discordant, 
the  result  of  accident  and  habit,  and  is  often,  as  in  the 
present  instance,  cemented  by  unconquerable  good-nature  in 
one  of  the  parties.  For  this  latter  qualification  Captain 


66 


Xtortel  Xlncolrt 


Polwarth  was  eminent,  if  for  no  other.  It  contributed  quite 
as  much  as  his  science  in  the  art  of  living,  to  the  thriving 
condition  of  the  corporeal  moiety  of  the  man,  and  it  ren- 
dered a communion  with  the  less  material  part  at  all  times 
inoffensive,  if  not  agreeable. 

On  the  present  occasion,  the  captain  took  charge  of  the 
internal  economy  of  Lionel's  lodgings,  with  a zeal  which  he 
did  not  even  pretend  was  disinterested.  By  the  rules  of  the 
regiment  he  was  compelled  to  live  nominally  with  the  mess, 
where  he  found  his  talents  and  his  wishes  fettered  by  divers 
indispensable  regulations,  and  economical  practices,  that 
could  not  be  easily  overleaped  ; but  with  Lionel,  just  such  an 
opportunity  offered  for  establishing  rules  of  his  own,  and 
disregarding  expenditure,  as  he  had  been  long  pining  for  in 
secret.  Though  the  poor  of  the  town  were,  in  the  absence 
of  employment,  necessarily  supported  by  large  contributions 
of  money,  clothing,  and  food,  which  were  transmitted  to 
their  aid  from  the  farthermost  parts  of  the  colonies,  the 
markets  were  not  yet  wanting  in  all  the  necessaries  of  life, 
to  those  who  enjoyed  the  means  of  purchasing.  With  this 
disposition  of  things,  therefore,  he  became  well  content,  and 
within  the  first  fortnight  after  the  arrival  of  Lionel,  it  became 
known  to  the  mess  that  Captain  Polwarth  took  his  dinners 
regularly  with  his  old  friend,  Major  Lincoln ; though  in 
truth  the  latter  was  enjoying,  more  than  half  the  time,  the 
hospitality  of  the  respective  tables  of  the  officers  of  the  staff. 

In  the  meantime  Lionel  cultivated  his  acquaintance  in 
Tremont  Street,  where  he  still  slept,  with  an  interest  and 
assiduity  that  the  awkwardness  of  his  first  interview  would 
not  have  taught  us  to  expect.  With  Mrs.  Lechmere,  it  is 
true,  he  made  but  little  progress  in  intimacy ; for,  equally 
formal,  though  polite,  she  was  at  all  times  enshrouded  in  a 
cloud  of  artificial,  but  cold  management,  that  gave  him  little 
opportunity,  had  he  possessed  the  desire,  to  break  through 
the  reserve  of  her  calculating  temperament.  With  his  more 
youthful  kinswomen,  the  case  was,  however,  in  a few  days, 
entirely  reversed.  Agnes  Danforth,  who  had  nothing  to 
conceal,  began  insensibly  to  yield  to  the  manliness  and  grace 
of  his  manner,  and  before  the  end  of  the  first  week,  she 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


67 


maintained  the  rights  of  the  colonists,  laughed  at  the  follies 
of  the  officers,  and  then  acknowledged  her  own  prejudices, 
with  a familiarity  and  good-humor  that  soon  made  her,  in 
her  turn,  a favorite  with  her  English  cousin,  as  she  termed 
Lionel.  But  he  found  the  demeanor  of  Cecil  Dynevor  much 
more  embarrassing,  if  not  inexplicable.  For  days  she  would 
be  distant,  silent,  and  haughty,  and  then  again,  as  it  were 
by  sudden  impulses,  she  became  easy  and  natural ; her 
whole  soul  beaming  in  her  speaking  eyes,  or  her  innocent 
and  merry  humor  breaking  through  the  bounds  of  her  re- 
straint, and  rendering  not  only  herself,  but  all  around  her, 
happy  and  delighted.  Full  many  an  hour  did  Lionel  ponder 
on  this  unaccountable  difference  in  the  manner  of  this 
young  lady,  at  different  moments.  There  was  a secret 
excitement  in  the  very  caprices  of  her  humors,  that  had  a 
piquant  interest  in  his  eyes,  and  which,  aided  by  her  exqui- 
site form  and  intelligent  face,  gradually  induced  him  to 
become  a more  close  observer  of  their  waywardness,  and 
consequently  a more  assiduous  attendant  on  her  movements. 
In  consequence  of  this  assiduity,  the  manner  of  Cecil  grew, 
almost  imperceptibly,  less  variable,  and  more  uniformly  fas- 
cinating, while  Lionel,  by  some  unaccountable  oversight, 
soon  forgot  to  notice  its  changes,  or  even  to  miss  the  excite- 
ment. 

In  a mixed  society,  where  pleasure,  company,  and  a mul- 
titude of  objects  conspired  to  distract  the  attention,  such 
alterations  would  be  the  result  of  an  intercourse  for  months, 
if  they  ever  occurred  ; but  in  a town  like  Boston,  from  which 
most  of  those  with  whom  Cecil  had  once  mingled  were 
already  fled,  and  where,  consequently,  those  who  remained 
behind  lived  chiefly  for  themselves  and  by  themselves,  it 
was  no  more  than  the  obvious  effect  of  very  apparent 
causes.  In  this  manner  something  like  good-will,  if  not  a 
deeper  interest  in  each  other,  was  happily  effected  within 
that  memorable  fortnight,  which  was  teeming  with  events 
vastly  more  important  in  their  results  than  any  that  can 
appertain  to  the  fortunes  of  a single  family. 

The  winter  of  1774-75  had  been  as  remarkable  for  its 
mildness,  as  the  spring  was  cold  and  lingering.  Like  every 


68 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


season  in  our  changeable  climate,  however,  the  chilling  days 
of  March  and  April  were  intermingled  with  some,  when  a 
genial  sun  recalled  the  ideas  of  summer,  which,  in  their 
turn,  were  succeeded  by  others,  when  the  torrents  of  cold 
rain,  that  drove  before  the  easterly  gales,  would  seem  to 
repel  every  advance  towards  a milder  temperature.  Many 
of  those  stormy  days  occurred  in  the  middle  of  April,  and 
during  their  continuance  Lionel  was  necessarily  compelled  to 
keep  himself  housed. 

He  had  retired  from  the  parlor  of  Mrs.  Lechmere,  one 
evening,  when  the  rain  was  beating  against  the  windows  of 
the  house,  in  nearly  horizontal  lines,  to  complete  some  let- 
ters which,  before  dining,  he  had  commenced  to  the  agent 
of  his  family,  in  England.  On  entering  his  own  apart- 
ment he  was  startled  to  find  the  room,  which  he  had  left 
vacant,  and  which  he  expected  to  find  in  the  same  state, 
occupied  in  a manner  that  he  could  not  anticipate.  The 
light  of  a strong  wood  fire  was  blazing  on  the  hearth,  and 
throwing  about,  in  playful  changes,  the  flickering  shadows 
of  the  furniture,  and  magnifying  each  object  into  some 
strange  and  fantastical  figure.  As  he  stepped  within  the 
door,  his  eye  fell  upon  one  of  these  shadows,  which  extended 
along  the  wall,  and  bending  against  the  ceiling,  exhibited 
the  gigantic  but  certain  outlines  of  the  human  form.  Rec- 
ollecting that  he  had  left  his  letters  open,  and  a little  dis- 
trusting the  discretion  of  Meriton,  Lionel  advanced  lightly, 
for  a few  feet,  so  far  as  to  be  able  to  look  round  the  dra- 
pery of  his  bed,  and,  to  his  amazement,  perceived  that  the 
intruder  was  not  his  valet,  but  the  aged  stranger.  The  old 
man  sat  holding  in  his  hand  the  open  letter  which  Lionel 
had  been  writing,  and  continued  so  deeply  absorbed  in  its 
contents  that  the  footsteps  of  the  other  were  still  disre- 
garded. A large  coarse  overcoat,  dripping  with  water,  con- 
cealed most  of  his  person,  though  the  white  that  strayed 
about  his  face  and  the  deep  lines  of  his  remarkable  counte- 
nance could  not  be  mistaken. 

“I  was  ignorant  of  this  unexpected  visit,”  said  Lionel, 
advancing  quickly  into  the  centre  of  the  room,  “ or  I should 
not  have  been  so  tardy  in  returning  to  my  apartment,  where, 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


69 


sir,  I fear  you  must  have  found  your  time  irksome,  with 
nothing  but  that  scrawl  to  amuse  you.” 

The  old  man  dropped  the  paper  from  before  his  features, 
and  betrayed,  by  the  action,  the  large  drops  that  followed 
each  other  down  his  hollow  cheeks,  until  they  fell  even  to 
the  floor.  The  haughty  and  displeased  look  disappeared 
from  the  countenance  of  Lionel  at  this  sight,  and  he  was 
on  the  point  of  speaking  in  a more  conciliating  manner, 
when  the  stranger,  whose  eye  had  not  quailed  before  the 
angry  frown  it  encountered,  anticipated  his  intention. 

“I  comprehend  you,  Major  Lincoln,”  he  said,  calmly; 
“but  there  can  exist  justifiable  reasons  for  a greater  breach 
of  faith  than  this  of  which  you  accuse  me.  Accident,  and 
not  intention,  has  put  me  in  possession,  here,  of  your  most 
secret  thoughts  on  a subject  that  has  deep  interest  for  me. 
You  have  urged  me  often,  during  our  voyage,  to  make  you 
acquainted  with  all  that  you  most  desire  to  know  ; to  which 
request,  as  you  may  remember,  I have  ever  been  silent.” 
“You  have  said,  sir,  that  you  are  master  of  a secret  in 
which  my  feelings,  I will  acknowledge,  are  deeply  interested, 
and  I have  urged  you  to  remove  my  doubts  by  declaring 
the  truth  ; but  I do  not  perceive — ” 

4 ‘ How  a desire  to  possess  my  secret  gives  me  a claim  to 
inquire  into  yours,  you  would  say,”  interrupted  the  stranger ; 
“nor  does  it.  But  an  interest  in  your  affairs,  that  you 
cannot  yet  understand,  and  which  is  vouched  for  by  these 
scalding  tears,  the  first  that  have  fallen  in  years  from  a 
fountain  that  I had  thought  dried,  should  and  must  satisfy 
you.” 

“It  does,”  said  Lionel,  deeply  affected  by  the  melancholy 
tones  of  his  voice  ; “it  does,  it  does,  and  I will  listen  to  no 
further  explanation  on  the  unpleasant  subject.  You  see 
nothing  there,  I am  sure,  of  which  a son  can  have  reason 
to  be  ashamed.” 

“I  see  much  here,  Lionel  Lincoln,  of  which  a father 
would  have  reason  to  be  proud,”  returned  the  old  man. 
“ It  was  the  filial  love  which  you  have  displayed  in  this 
paper  which  has  drawn  these  drops  from  my  eyes  ; for  he 
who  has  lived  as  I have  done,  beyond  the  age  of  man, 


70 


Xtonel  Xfncoltt 


without  knowing  the  love  that  the  parent  feels  for  its  off- 
spring, or  which  the  child  bears  to  the  author  of  its  being, 
must  have  outlived  his  natural  sympathies,  not  to  be  con- 
scious of  his  misfortune,  when  chance  makes  him  sensible  of 
affections  like  these.  ’ ’ 

“You  have  never  been  a father,  then?”  said  Lionel, 
drawing  a chair  nigh  to  his  aged  companion,  and  seating 
himself  with  an  air  of  powerful  interest  that  he  could  not 
control. 

“Have  I not  told  you  that  I am  alone?”  returned  the 
old  man,  with  a solemn  manner.  After  an  impressive  pause, 
he  continued,  though  his  tones  were  husky  and  low,  “ I have 
been  both  husband  and  parent  in  my  day,  but  ’tis  so  long 
since  that  no  selfish  tie  remains  to  bind  me  to  earth.  Old 
age  is  the  neighbor  of  death,  and  the  chill  of  the  grave  is 
to  be  found  in  its  warmest  breathings.” 

“ Say  not  so,”  interrupted  Lionel,  “for  you  do  injustice  to 
your  own  warm  nature  ; you  forget  your  zeal  in  behalf  of 
what  you  deem  these  oppressed  colonies.” 

“’Tis  no  more  than  the  flickering  of  the  dying  lamp, 
which  flares  and  dazzles  most  when  its  source  of  heat  is 
nighest  to  extinction.  But  though  I may  not  infuse  into 
your  bosom  a warmth  that  I do  not  possess  myself,  I can 
point  out  the  dangers  with  which  life  abounds,  and  serve  as 
a beacon  when  no  longer  useful  as  a pilot.  It  is  for  such  a 
purpose,  Major  Lincoln,  that  I have  braved  the  tempest  of 
to-night.” 

“Has  anything  occurred  which,  by  rendering  danger 
pressing,  can  make  such  an  exposure  necessary?  ” 

“Look  at  me,”  said  the  old  man  earnestly  : “I  have  seen 
most  of  this  flourishing  country  a wilderness  ; my  recollec- 
tion goes  back  into  those  periods  when  the  savage  and  the 
beast  of  the  forest  contended  with  our  fathers  for  much  of 
that  soil  which  now  supports  its  hundreds  of  thousands  in 
plenty ; and  my  time  is  to  be  numbered,  not  by  years,  but 
by  ages.  For  such  a being,  think  you  there  can  yet  be 
many  months,  or  weeks,  or  even  days  in  store?  ” 

Lionel  dropped  his  eyes,  in  embarrassment,  to  the  floor, 
as  he  answered, — 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


71 


“ You  cannot  have  very  many  years,  surely,  to  hope  for, 
but  with  the  activity  and  temperance  you  possess,  days  and 
months  confine  you,  I trust,  in  limits  much  too  small.” 

‘ ‘ What ! ’ ’ exclaimed  the  other,  stretching  forth  a color- 
less hand,  in  which  even  the  prominent  veins  partook  in  the 
appearance  of  a general  decay  of  nature  ; ‘ ‘ with  these 
wasted  limbs,  these  gray  hairs,  and  this  sunken  and  sepul- 
chral cheek,  would  you  talk  to  me  of  years  ! to  me,  who  have 
not  the  effrontery  to  petition  for  even  minutes,  were  they 
worth  the  prayer — so  long  already  has  been  my  probation  ! ’ ’ 
“It  is  certainly  time  to  think  of  the  change,  when  it 
approaches  so  very  near.” 

“Well,  then,  Lionel  Lincoln,  old,  feeble,  and  on  the 
threshold  of  eternity  as  I stand,  yet  am  I not  nearer  to  my 
grave  than  that  country,  to  which  you  have  pledged  your 
blood,  is  to  a mighty  convulsion,  which  will  shake  hei 
institutions  to  their  foundations.” 

‘ ‘ I cannot  admit  the  signs  of  the  times  to  be  quite  so  por- 
tentous as  your  fears  would  make  them,”  said  Lionel,  smil- 
ing a little  proudly.  ‘ ‘ Though  the  worst  that  is  apprehended 
should  arrive,  England  will  feel  the  shock  but  as  the  earth 
bears  an  eruption  of  one  of  its  volcanoes  ! But  we  talk  in 
idle  figures,  sir  ; know  you  anything  to  justify  the  appre- 
hension of  immediate  danger  ? 9 9 

The  face  of  the  stranger  lighted  with  a sudden  and  startling 
gleam  of  intelligence,  and  a sarcastic  smile  passed  across  his 
wan  features,  as  he  answered  slowly, — 

“ They  only  have  cause  to  fear,  who  will  be  the  losers  by 
the  change  ! A youth  who  casts  off  the  trammels  of  his 
guardians  is  not  apt  to  doubt  his  ability  to  govern  himself. 
England  has  held  these  colonies  so  long  in  leading-strings, 
that  she  forgets  her  offspring  is  able  to  go  alone. 9 9 

“ Now,  sir,  you  exceed  even  the  wild  projects  of  the  most 
daring  among  those  who  call  themselves  the  ‘ Sons  of  Lib- 
erty,’ as  if  liberty  existed  in  any  place  more  favored  or  more 
nurtured  than  under  the  blessed  Constitution  of  England  ! 
The  utmost  required  is  what  they  term  a redress  of  griev- 
ances, many  of  which,  I must  think,  exist  only  in  imagina- 
tion/’ 


72 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


“Wasa  stone  ever  known  to  roll  upward  ? Let  there  be 
but  one  drop  of  American  blood  spilt  in  anger,  and  its  stain 
will  become  indelible.” 

4 ‘ Unhappily  the  experiment  has  been  already  tried  ; and 
yet  years  have  rolled  by,  while  England  keeps  her  footing 
and  authority  good.” 

“ Her  authority  ! ” repeated  the  old  man  : “ see  you  not, 
Major  Lincoln,  in  the  forbearance  of  this  people,  when  they 
felt  themselves  in  the  wrong,  the  existence  of  the  very  prin- 
ciples that  will  render  them  invincible  and  unyielding  when 
right  ? But  we  waste  our  time  ; I came  to  conduct  you  to  a 
place  where,  with  your  own  ears,  and  with  your  own  eyes, 
you  may  hear  and  see  a little  of  that  spirit  which  pervades 
the  land.  You  will  follow  ? 9 9 

“ Not,  surely,  in  such  a tempest ! ” 

‘ ‘ This  tempest  is  but  a trifle  to  that  which  is  about  to 
break  upon  you,  unless  you  retrace  your  steps  ; but  follow, 
I repeat : if  a man  of  my  years  disregards  the  night,  ought 
an  English  soldier  to  hesitate  ? ” 

The  pride  of  Lionel  was  touched  ; and  remembering  an 
engagement  he  had  previously  made  with  his  aged  friend  to 
accompany  him  to  a scene  like  this,  he  made  such  changes 
in  his  dress  as  would  serve  to  conceal  his  profession,  threw  on 
a large  cloak  to  protect  his  person,  and  was  about  to  lead  the 
way  himself,  when  he  was  aroused  by  the  voice  of  the  other. 

“You  mistake  the  route/’  he  said  ; “ this  is  to  be  a secret, 
and  I hope  a profitable  visit ; none  must  know  of  your  pres- 
ence ; and  if  you  are  a worthy  son  of  your  honorable  father, 
I need  hardly  add  that  my  faith  is  pledged  for  your  discre- 
tion.” 

‘ ‘ The  pledge  will  be  respected,  sir, 9 9 said  Lionel,  haughtily; 
“ but  in  order  to  see  what  you  wish,  we  are  not  to  remain 
here  ? 9 9 

“ Follow,  then,  and  be  silent,”  said  the  old  man,  turning 
and  opening  the  doors  which  led  into  a little  apartment 
lighted  by  one  of  those  smaller  windows  already  mentioned 
in  describing  the  exterior  of  the  building.  The  passage  was 
dark  and  narrow ; but,  observing  the  warnings  of  his  com- 
panion, Lionel  succeeded  in  descending,  in  safety,  a flight  of 


Xionel  Xincoln 


73 


steps  which  formed  a private  communication  between  the 
offices  of  the  dwelling  and  its  upper  apartments.  They 
paused  an  instant  at  the  bottom  of  the  stairs,  where  the  youth 
expressed  his  amazement  that  a stranger  should  be  so  much 
more  familiar  with  the  building  than  he  who  had  for  so 
many  days  made  it  his  home. 

“ Have  I not  often  told  you,”  returned  the  old  man,  with 
a severity  in  his  voice  which  was  even  apparent  in  its  sup- 
pressed tones,  “ that  I have  known  Boston  for  near  a hun- 
dred years  ? How  many  edifices  like  this  does  it  contain, 
that  I should  not  have  noted  its  erection  ! But  follow  in 
silence,  and  be  prudent.  ’ ’ 

He  now  opened  a door  which  conducted  them  through  one 
end  of  the  building,  into  the  courtyard  in  which  it  was  situ- 
ated. As  they  emerged  into  the  open  air,  Lionel  perceived 
the  figure  of  a man,  crouching  under  the  walls,  as  if  seeking 
a shelter  from  the  driving  rain.  The  moment  they  appeared, 
this  person  arose,  and  followed  as  they  moved  towards  the 
street. 

“ Are  we  not  watched  ? ” said  Lionel,  stopping  to  face  the 
unknown.  ” Whom  have  we  skulking  in  our  footsteps  ? ” 

“ ’T  is  the  boy,”  said  the  old  man,  for  whom  we  must 
adopt  the  name  of  Ralph,  which  it  would  appear  was  the 
usual  term  used  by  Job  when  addressing  his  mother’s  guest, 
“ ’t  is  the  boy,  and  he  can  do  us  no  harm.  God  has  granted 
to  him  a knowledge  between  much  of  what  is  good  and  that 
which  is  evil,  though  the  mind  of  the  child  is,  at  times,  sadly 
weakened  by  his  bodily  ailings.  His  heart,  however,  is  with 
his  country,  at  a moment  when  she  needs  all  hearts  to  main- 
tain her  rights.” 

The  young  British  officer  bowed  his  head  to  meet  the 
tempest,  and  smiled  scornfully  within  the  folds  of  his  cloak, 
which  he  drew  more  closely  around  his  form,  as  they  met 
the  gale  in  the  open  streets  of  the  town.  They  had  passed 
swiftly  through  many  narrow  and  crooked  ways,  before 
another  word  wa$  uttered  between  the  adventurers.  Lionel 
mused  on  the  singular  and  indefinable  interest  that  he  took 
in  the  movements  of  his  companion,  which  could  draw  him 
at  a time  like  this  from  the  shelter  of  Mrs.  Lechmere’s  roof. 


74 


Xiortel  ^Lincoln 


to  wander  he  knew  not  whither,  and  on  an  errand  which 
might  even  be  dangerous  to  his  person.  Still  he  followed, 
unhesitatingly  ; for  with  these  passing  thoughts  were 
blended  the  recollection  of  the  many  recent  and  interesting 
communications  he  had  held  with  the  old  man  during  their 
long  and  close  association  in  the  ship  ; nor  was  he  wanting 
in  a natural  interest  for  all  that  involved  the  safety  and  hap- 
piness of  the  place  of  his  birth.  He  kept  the  form  of  his 
aged  guide  in  his  eye,  as  the  other  moved  before  him,  careless 
of  the  tempest  which  beat  on  his  withered  frame,  and  he 
heard  the  heavy  footsteps  of  Job  in  his  rear,  who  had  closed 
so  near  his  own  person  as  to  share,  in  some  measure,  in  the 
shelter  of  his  ample  cloak.  But  no  other  living  being  seemed 
to  have  ventured  abroad  ; and  even  the  few  sentinels  they 
passed,  instead  of  pacing  in  front  of  those  doors  which  it 
was  their  duty  to  guard,  were  concealed  behind  the  angles 
of  walls,  or  sought  shelter  under  the  projections  of  some 
favoring  roof.  At  moments  the  wind  rushed  into  the  narrow 
avenues  of  the  streets,  along  which  it  swept,  with  a noise  not 
unlike  the  hollow  roaring  of  the  sea,  and  with  a violence 
which  was  nearly  irresistible.  At  such  times,  Lionel  was 
compelled  to  pause,  and  even  frequently  to  recede  a little  from 
his  "path,  while  his  guide,  supported  by  his  high  purpose, 
and  but  little  obstructed  by  his  garments,  seemed,  to  the 
bewildered  imagination  of  his  follower,  to  glide  through  the 
night  with  a facility  that  was  supernatural.  At  length  the 
old  man,  who  had  got  some  distance  ahead  of  his  followers, 
suddenly  paused,  and  allowed  Lionel  to  approach  to  his  side. 
The  latter  observed,  with  surprise,  that  he  had  stopped  be- 
fore the  root  and  stump  of  a tree,  which  had  once  grown  on 
the  borders  of  a street,  and  which  appeared  to  have  been 
recently  felled. 

4 4 Do  you  see  this  remnant  of  the  Elm  ? ’ 9 said  Ralph,  when 
the  others  had  stopped  also.  “ Their  axes  have  succeeded 
in  destroying  the  mother  plant,  but  her  scions  are  flourishing 
throughout  a continent  ! ’ ’ 

44  I do  not  comprehend  you,’’  returned  Lionel  ; 44 1 see  here 
nothing  but  the  stump  of  some  tree  ; surely  the  ministers  of 
the  king  are  not  answerable  that  it  stands  no  longer  ! ’ * 


^Lionel  Xlncoln 


75 


‘ ‘ The  ministers  of  the  king  are  answerable  to  their  mas- 
ter, that  it  has  ever  become  what  it  is ; but  speak  to  the  boy 
at  your  side  ; he  will  tell  you  of  its  virtues.’  ’ 

Lionel  turned  towards  Job,  and  perceived,  by  the  obscure 
light  of  the  moon,  to  his  surprise,  that  the  changeling  stood 
with  his  head  bared  to  the  storm,  regarding  the  root  with  an 
extraordinary  degree  of  reverence. 

“This  is  all  a mystery  to  me,”  he  said;  “what  do  you 
know  about  this  stump  to  stand  in  awe  of,  boy  ? ” 

“ ’T  is  the  root  of  ‘ Liberty-tree, ’ ” said  Job,  “ and ’t  is 
wicked  to  pass  it  without  making  your  manners  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ And  what  has  this  tree  done  for  liberty,  that  it  has 
merited  so  much  respect  ? ” 

“ What ! why,  did  you  ever  see  a tree  afore  this  that  could 
write  and  give  notices  of  town-meetin’  da’s,  or  that  could  tell 
the  people  what  the  king  meant  to  do  with  the  tea,  and  his 
stamps  ! ’ ’ 

“ And  could  this  marvellous  tree  work  such  miracles  ? ” 

“ To  be  sure  it  could,  and  it  did,  too.  You  let  stingy 
Tommy  think  to  get  above  the  people  with  any  of  his  cun- 
ning over  night,  and  you  might  come  here  next  morning, 
and  read  a warning  on  the  bark  of  this  tree,  that  would  tell 
all  about  it,  and  how  to  put  down  his  deviltries,  written  out 
fair,  in  a hand  as  good  as  Master  Lovell  himself  could  put  on 
paper,  the  best  day  of  his  grand  scholarship.” 

‘ ‘ And  who  puts  the  paper  there  ? ’ ’ 

“ Who  ! ” exclaimed  Job,  a little  positively  ; “ why,  Lib- 
erty came  in  the  night,  and  pasted  it  up  herself.  When  Nab 
could  n’t  get  a house  to  live  in,  Job  used  to  sleep  under  the 
tree,  sometimes  ; and  many  a night  has  he  seen  Liberty  with 
his  own  eyes  come  and  put  up  the  paper.” 

‘ 4 And  was  it  a woman  ? ’ ’ 

“ Do  you  think  Liberty  was  such  a fool  as  to  come  every 
time  in  woman’s  clothes,  to  be  followed  by  the  rake-helly 
soldiers  about  the  streets?  ” said  Job,  with  great  contempt  in 
his  manner.  “ Sometimes  she  did,  though,  and  sometimes 
she  did  n’t,  just  as  it  happened.  And  Job  was  in  the  tree 
when  old  Noll  had  to  give  up  his  ungodly  stamps  ; though 
he  did  n’t  do  it  till  the  ‘ Sons  of  Liberty  ’ had  chucked  his 


7 6 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


stamp-shop  in  the  dock,  and  hung  him  and  Lord  Boot 
together,  on  the  branches  of  the  old  Elm  ! ’ ’ 

“ Hung  ! ” said  Lionel,  unconsciously  drawing  back  from 
the  spot ; ‘ ‘ was  it  ever  a gallows  ? ’ 9 

“Yes,  for  iffigies,”  said  Job,  laughing  ; “ I wish  you  could 
have  been  here  to  see  how  the  old  boot,  with  Satan  sticking 
out  on ’t,  whirled  about  when  they  swung  it  off!  They 
give  the  old  boy  a big  shoe  to  put  his  cloven  huff  in  ! ’ ’ 

Lionel,  who  was  familiar  with  the  peculiar  sound  that  his 
townsmen  gave  to  the  letter  u , now  comprehended  the  allu- 
sion to  the  Earl  of  Bute,  and,  beginning  to  understand  more 
clearly  the  nature  of  the  transactions  and  the  uses  to  which 
that  memorable  tree  had  been  applied,  he  expressed  his 
desire  to  proceed. 

The  old  man  had  suffered  Job  to  make  his  own  explana- 
tions, though  not  without  a curious  interest  in  the  effect 
they  would  produce  on  Lionel  ; but  the  instant  the  request 
was  made  to  advance,  he  turned,  and  once  more  led  the  way. 
Their  course  w7as  now  directed  more  towards  the  wharves ; 
nor  was  it  long  before  their  conductor  turned  into  a narrow 
court,  and  entered  a house  of  rather  mean  appearance,  with- 
out even  observing  the  formality  of  announcing  his  visit  by 
the  ordinary  summons  of  rapping  at  its  door.  A long,  nar- 
row, and  dimly-lighted  passage  conducted  them  to  a spacious 
apartment  far  in  the  court,  which  appeared  to  have  been 
fitted  as  a place  for  the  reception  of  large  assemblages  of 
people.  In  this  room  were  collected  at  least  a hundred  men, 
seemingly  intent  on  some  object  of  more  than  usual  interest, 
by  the  gravity  and  seriousness  of  demeanor  apparent  in 
every  countenance. 

As  it  was  Sunday,  the  first  impression  of  Lionel,  on  enter- 
ing the  room,  was,  that  his  old  friend,  who  often  betrayed  a 
keen  sensibility  on  subjects  of  religion,  had  brought  him 
there  with  a design  to  listen  to  some  favorite  exhorter  of  his 
peculiar  tenets,  and  as  a tacit  reproach  for  a neglect  of  the 
usual  ordinances  of  that  holy  day,  of  which  the  conscience 
of  the  young  man  suddenly  accused  him,  on  finding  himself 
unexpectedly  mingled  in  such  a throng.  But  after  he  had 
forced  his  person  among  a dense  body  of  men,  who  stood  at 


OLtonel  Xincoln 


77 


the  lower  end  of  the  apartment,  and  became  a silent  observer 
of  the  scene,  he  was  soon  made  to  perceive  his  error.  The 
weather  had  induced  all  present  to  appear  in  such  garments 
as  were  best  adapted  to  protect  them  from  its  fury  ; and 
their  exteriors  were  rough,  and  perhaps  a little  forbidding  ; 
but  there  was  a composure  and  decency  in  the  air  common 
to  the  whole  assembly,  which  denoted  that  they  were  men 
who  possessed,  in  a high  degree,  the  commanding  quality 
of  self-respect.  A very  few  minutes  sufficed  to  teach  Lionel 
that  he  was  in  the  midst  of  a meeting  collected  to  discuss 
questions  connected  with  the  political  movements  of  the 
times,  though  he  felt  himself  a little  at  a loss  to  discover  the 
precise  results  it  was  intended  to  produce.  To  every  ques- 
tion there  were  one  or  two  speakers,  men  who  expressed 
their  ideas  in  a familiar  manner,  and  with  the  peculiar  tones 
and  pronunciation  of  the  province,  that  left  no  room  to 
believe  them  to  be  orators  of  a higher  character  than  the 
mechanics  and  tradesmen  of  the  town.  Most,  if  not  all  of 
them,  wore  an  air  of  deliberation  and  coldness,  that  would 
have  rendered  their  sincerity  in  the  cause  they  had  appar- 
ently espoused  a little  equivocal,  but  for  occasional  expres- 
sions of  coarse,  and  sometimes  biting  invective,  that  they  ex- 
pended on  the  ministers  of  the  crown,  and  for  the  perfect  and 
firm  unanimity  that  was  manifested,  as  each  expression  of 
the  common  feeling  was  taken,  after  the  manner  of  delibera- 
tive bodies.  Certain  resolutions,  in  which  the  most  respect- 
ful remonstrances  were  singularly  blended  with  the  boldest 
assertions  of  constitutional  principles,  were  read,  and  passed 
without  a dissenting  voice,  though  with  a calmness  that 
indicated  no  very  strong  excitement.  Lionel  was  peculiarly 
struck  with  the  language  of  these  written  opinions,  which 
were  expressed  with  a purity,  and  sometimes  with  an  ele- 
gance of  style,  which  plainly  showed  that  the  acquaintance 
of  the  sober  artisan  with  the  instrument  through  whose  peri- 
ods he  was  blundering,  was  quite  recent,  and  far  from  be- 
ing very  intimate..  The  eyes  of  the  young  soldier  wandered 
from  face  to  face  with  a strong  desire  to  detect  the  secret 
movers  of  the  scene  he  was  witnessing  ; nor  was  he  long 
without  selecting  one  individual  as  an  object  peculiarly  de- 


78 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


serving  of  his  suspicions.  It  was  a man  apparently  but  just 
entering  into  middle  age,  of  an  appearance,  both  in  person 
and  in  such  parts  of  his  dress  as  escaped  from  beneath  his 
overcoat,  that  denoted  him  to  be  of  a class  altogether  superior 
to  the  mass  of  the  assembly.  A deep  but  manly  respect  was 
evidently  paid  to  this  gentleman  by  those  who  stood  nearest 
to  his  person  ; and  once  or  twice  there  were  close  and  earnest 
communications  passing  between  him  and  the  more  osten- 
sible leaders  of  the  meeting,  which  roused  the  suspicions  of 
Lionel  in  the  manner  related.  Notwithstanding  the  secret 
dislike  that  the  English  officer  suddenly  conceived  against  a 
man  that  he  fancied  was  thus  abusing  his  powers,  by  urging 
others  to  acts  of  insubordination,  he  could  not  conceal  from 
himself  the  favorable  impression  made  by  the  open,  fearless, 
and  engaging  countenance  of  the  stranger.  Lionel  was  so 
situated  as  to  be  able  to  keep  his  person,  which  was  partly 
concealed  by  the  taller  forms  that  surrounded  him,  in  con- 
stant view  ; nor  was  it  long  before  his  earnest  and  curious 
gaze  caught  the  attention  of  the  other.  Glances  of  marked 
meaning  were  exchanged  between  them  during  the  remain- 
der of  the  evening,  until  the  chairman  announced  that  the 
objects  of  the  convocation  were  accomplished,  and  dissolved 
the  meeting. 

Lionel  raised  himself  from  his  reclining  attitude  against 
the  wall,  and  submitted  to  be  carried  by  the  current  of  hu- 
man bodies  into  the  dark  passage,  through  which  he  had 
entered  the  room.  Here  he  lingered  a moment,  with  a 
view  to  recover  his  lost  companion,  and  with  a secret  wish 
to  scan  more  narrowly  the  proceedings  of  the  man  whose 
air  and  manner  had  so  long  chained  his  attention.  The 
crowd  had  sensibly  diminished  before  he  was  aware  that 
few  remained  besides  himself,  nor  would  he  then  have 
discovered  that  he  was  likely  to  become  an  object  of 
suspicion  to  those  few,  had  not  a voice  at  his  elbow  recalled 
his  recollection. 

“Does  Major  Lincoln  meet  his  countrymen  to-night  as 
one  who  sympathizes  in  their  wrongs,  or  as  the  favored  and 
prosperous  officer  of  the  crown  ? ’ ’ asked  the  very  man  for 
whose  person  he  had  so  long  been  looking  in  vain. 


OUonel  Lincoln 


79 


“Is  sympathy  with  the  oppressed  incompatible  with 
loyalty  to  my  prince  ? ” demanded  Lionel. 

“That  it  is  not,”  said  the  stranger,  in  a friendly  accent, 
“ is  apparent  from  the  conduct  of  many  gallant  Englishmen 
among  us,  who  espouse  our  cause  ; but  we  claim  Major 
Lincoln  as  a countryman.” 

“ Perhaps,  sir,  it  would  be  indiscreet  just  now  to  disavow 
that  title,  let  my  dispositions  be  as  they  may,”  returned 
Lionel,  smiling  a little  haughtily  ; “ this  may  not  be  as  se- 
cure a spot  in  which  to  avow  one’s  sentiment,  as  the  town 
common,  or  the  palace  of  St.  James.” 

“ Had  the  king  been  present  to-night,  Major  Lincoln, 
would  he  have  heard  a single  sentence  opposed  to  that  con- 
stitution which  has  declared  him  a member  too  sacred  to  be 
offended?  ” 

‘ ‘ Whatever  may  have  been  the  legality  of  your  senti- 
ments, sir,  they  surely  have  not  been  expressed  in  language 
altogether  fit  for  a royal  ear.  ’ ’ 

“ It  may  not  have  been  adulation,  or  even  flattery,  but  it 
is  truth,  a quality  no  less  sacred  than  the  rights  of  kings.” 

“This  is  neither  a place  nor  an  occasion,  sir,”  said  the 
young  soldier,  quickly,  “ to  discuss  the  rights  of  our  com- 
mon master  ; but  if,  as  from  your  manner  and  your  language 
I think  not  improbable,  we  should  meet  hereafter  in  a 
higher  sphere,  you  will  not  find  me  at  a loss  to  vindicate  his 
claims.” 

The  stranger  smiled  with  meaning,  and  as  he  bowed  be- 
fore he  fell  back  and  was  lost  in  the  darkness  of  the  passage, 
he  replied, — 

“Our  fathers  have  often  met  in  such  society,  I believe ; 
God  forbid  that  their  sons  should  ever  encounter  in  a less 
friendly  manner.” 

Lionel,  now  finding  himself  alone,  groped  his  way  into 
the  street,  where  he  perceived  Ralph  and  the  changeling  in 
waiting  for  his  appearance.  Without  demanding  the  cause 
of  the  other’s  delay,  the  old  man  proceeded  by  the  side  of 
his  companions,  with  the  same  indifference  to  the  tempest 
as  before,  towards  the  residence  of  Mrs.  Lechmere. 

“You  have  now  had  some  evidence  of  the  spirit  that  per- 


8o 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


vades  this  people,’ , said  Ralph,  after  a few  moments  of 
silence  ; ‘ ‘ think  you  still  there  is  no  danger  that  the  vol- 
cano will  explode  ? 9 1 

“Surely  everything  I have  heard  and  seen  to-night  con- 
firms such  an  opinion,”  returned  Lionel.  “ Men  on  the 
threshold  of  rebellion  seldom  reason  so  closely,  and  with 
such  moderation.  Why,  the  very  fuel  for  the  combustion, 
the  rabble  themselves,  discuss  their  constitutional  principles, 
and  keep  under  the  mantle  of  law,  as  though  they  were  a 
club  of  learned  Templars.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Think  you  that  the  fire  will  burn  less  steadily,  because 
what  you  call  the  fuel  has  been  prepared  by  the  seasoning 
of  time  ? 99  returned  Ralph.  “ But  this  comes  from  sending 
a youth  into  a foreign  land  for  his  education  ! The  boy 
rates  his  sober  and  earnest  countrymen  on  a level  with  the 
peasants  of  Europe.” 

So  much  Lionel  was  able  to  comprehend  ; but  notwith- 
standing the  old  man  muttered  vehemently  to  himself  for 
some  time  longer,  it  was  in  a tone  too  indistinct  for  his  ear 
to  understand  his  meaning.  When  they  arrived  in  a part 
of  the  town  with  which  Lionel  was  familiar,  his  aged  guide 
pointed  out  his  way,  and  took  his  leave,  saying, — 

“ I see  that  nothing  but  the  last,  and  dreadful  argument 
of  force,  will  convince  you  of  the  purpose  of  the  Americans 
to  resist  their  oppressors.  God  avert  the  evil  hour ! but 
when  it  shall  come,  as  come  it  must,  you  will  learn  your 
error,  young  man,  and,  I trust,  will  not  disregard  the  natu- 
ral ties  of  country  and  kindred.” 

Lionel  would  have  spoken  in  reply,  but  the  rapid  steps  j 
of  Ralph  rendered  his  wishes  vain  ; for,  before  he  had 
time  for  utterance,  his  emaciated  form  was  seen  gliding, 

■ 

like  an  immaterial  being,  through  the  sheets  of  driving 
rain,  and  was  soon  lost  to  the  eye,  as  it  vanished  in  the  dim 
shades  of  night,  followed  by  the  more  substantial  frame  of 


the  idiot. 


CHAPTER  VII. 

“Sergeant,  you  shall.  Thus  are  poor  servitors, 

When  others  sleep  upon  their  quiet  beds, 

Constrained  to  watch  in  darkness,  rain,  and  cold.” 

King  Henry  VI. 

TWO  or  three  days  of  fine,  balmy  spring  weather 
succeeded  the  storm,  during  which  Lionel  saw 
no  more  of  his  aged  fellow-voyager.  Job,  how- 
ever, attached  himself  to  the  British  soldier  with 
a confiding  helplessness  that  touched  the  heart  of  his 
young  protector,  who  gathered  from  the  circumstance  a 
just  opinion  of  the  nature  of  the  abuses  that  the  unfor- 
tunate changeling  was  frequently  compelled  to  endure  from 
the  brutal  soldiery.  Meriton  performed  the  functions  of 
master  of  the  wardrobe  to  the  lad,  by  Lionel's  express 
commands,  with  evident  disgust,  but  with  manifest  ad- 
vantage to  the  external  appearance,  if  with  no  very  sensible 
evidence  of  having  added  to  the  comfort  of  his  charge. 
During  this  short  period,  the  slight  impression  made  on 
Lionel  by  the  scene  related  in  the  preceding  chapter,  faded 
before  the  cheerful  changes  of  the  season,  and  the  increasing 
interest  which  he  felt  in  the  society  of  his  youthful  kins- 
women. Polwarth  relieved  him  from  all  cares  of  a domestic 
nature,  and  the  peculiar  shade  of  sadness,  which  at  times 
had  been  so  very  perceptible  in  his  countenance,  was 
changed  to  a look  of  a more  brightening  and  cheerful 
character.  Polwarth  and  Lionel  had  found  an  officer,  who 
had  formerly  served  in  the  same  regiment  with  them  in  the 
British  Islands,  in  command  of  a company  of  grenadiers, 
which  formed  part  of  the  garrison  of  Boston.  This  gentle- 


82 


^Lionel  Xtncoln 


man,  an  Irishman,  of  the  name  of  M’Fuse,  was  qualified  to 
do  great  honor  to  the  culinary  skill  of  the  officer  of  light 
infantry,  by  virtue  of  a keen  natural  gusto  for  whatever 
possessed  the  inherent  properties  of  a savory  taste,  though 
utterly  destitute  of  any  of  that  remarkable  scientific  knowl- 
edge which  might  be  said  to  distinguish  the  other  in  the 
art.  He  was,  in  consequence  of  this  double  claim  on  the 
notice  of  Lionel,  a frequent  guest  at  the  nightly  banquets 
prepared  by  Polwarth.  Accordingly,  we  find  him,  on  the 
evening  of  the  third  day  in  the  week,  seated  with  his  two 
friends  around  a board  plentifully  garnished  by  the  care  of 
that  gentleman,  on  the  preparations  for  which  more  than 
usual  skill  had  been  exerted,  if  the  repeated  declarations  of 
the  disciple  of  Heliogabalus,  to  that  effect,  were  entitled  to 
ordinary  credit. 

“ In  short,  Major  Lincoln,’ ’ said  Polwarth,  in  continuance 
of  his  favorite  theme,  while  seated  before  the  table,  “ a man 
may  live  anywhere,  provided  he  possesses  food — in  Eng- 
land, or  out  of  England,  it  matters  not.  Raiment  may  be 
necessary  to  appearance,  but  food  is  the  only  indispensable 
that  nature  has  imposed  on  the  animal  world  ; and,  in  my 
opinion,  here  is  a sort  of  obligation  on  every  man  to  be 
satisfied,  who  has  wherewithal  to  appease  the  cravings  of 
his  appetite.  Captain  M’Fuse,  I will  thank  you  to  cut  that 
sirloin  with  the  grain.” 

“What  matters  it,  Polly,”  said  the  captain  of  grenadiers, 
with  a slight  Irish  accent,  and  with  the  humor  of  his  coun- 
trymen strongly  depicted  in  his  fine,  open,  manly  features, 
“ which  way  a bit  of  meat  is  divided,  so  there  be  enough  to 
allay  the  cravings  of  the  appetite  ? ” 

“ It  is  a collateral  assistance  to  nature  that  should  never 
be  neglected,”  returned  Polwarth,  whose  gravity  and  seri- 
ousness at  his  banquets  were  not  easily  disturbed  ; “it  facil- 
itates mastication  and  aids  digestion,  two  considerations  of 
great  importance  to  military  men,  sir,  who  have  frequently 
such  little  time  for  the  former,  and  no  rest  after  their  meals 
to  complete  the  latter.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ He  reasons  like  an  army  contractor,  who  wishes  to 
make  one  ration  do  the  work  of  two,  when  transportation  is 


Xfonel  Xmcoln 


33 


high,”  said  M’Fuse,  winking  to  Lionel.  “According  to 
your  principles,  then,  Polly,  a potato  is  your  true  cam- 
paigner, for  that  is  a cr’ature  you  may  cut  any  way  with- 
out disturbing  the  grain,  provided  the  article  be  a little 
m’aly.” 

“Pardon  me,  Captain  M’Fuse,  ” said  Polwarth ; “a 
potato  should  be  broken,  and  not  cut  at  all ; there  is  no 
vegetable  more  used,  and  less  understood,  than  the  potato.’’ 
“And  is  it  you,  Pater  Polwarth,  of  Nesbitt’s  light  in- 
fantry/’ interrupted  the  grenadier,  laying  down  his  knife 
and  fork  with  an  air  of  infinite  humor,  “ that  will  tell  Den- 
nis M’Fuse  how  to  carve  a potato  ! I will  yield  to  the  right 
of  an  Englishman  over  the  chivalry  of  an  ox,  your  sirloins, 
and  your  lady-rumps,  if  you  please  ; but  in  my  own  coun- 
try, one  end  of  every  farm  is  a bog,  and  the  other  a potato 
field — ’tis  an  Irishman’s  patrimony  that  you  are  making  so 
free  with,  sir  ! ’’ 

‘ ‘ The  possession  of  a thing,  and  the  knowledge  how  to 
use  it,  are  two  very  different  properties — ’ ’ 

“Give  me  the  property  of  possession,  then,”  again  inter- 
rupted the  ardent  grenadier,  “ especially  when  a morsel  of 
the  green  island  is  in  dispute  ; and  trust  an  old  soldier  of 
the  Royal  Irish  to  carve  his  own  enjoyments.  Now,  I’ll 
wager  a month’s  pay — and  that  to  me  is  as  much  as  if  the 
major  should  say,  ‘Done  for  a thousand,’  that  you  can’t 
tell  how  many  dishes  can  be  made,  and  are  made  every  day 
in  Ireland,  out  of  so  simple  a thing  as  a potato.” 

“You  roast  and  boil ; and  use  them  in  stuffing  tame  birds, 
sometimes,  and — ” 

“All  old  woman’s  cookery  ! ” interrupted  M’Fuse,  with 
an  affectation  of  great  contempt  in  his  manner.  “ Now, 
sir,  we  have  them  with  butter,  and  without  butter — that 
counts  two  ; then  we  have  the  fruit  p’aled  ; and — ” 

“Impaled,”  said  Lionel,  laughing.  “I  believe  this  nice 
controversy  must  be  referred  to  Job,  who  is  amusing  him- 
self in  the  corner  there,  I see,  with  the  very  subject  of  the 
dispute  transfixed  on  his  fork  in  the  latter  condition.” 

“ Or  suppose,  rather,”  said  M’Fuse,  “ as  it  is  a matter  to 
exercise  the  judgment  of  Solomon,  we  make  a potato  um- 


84 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


pire  of  Master  Seth  Sage,  yonder,  who  should  have  some 
of  the  wisdom  of  the  royal  Jew,  by  the  sagacity  of  his 
countenance  as  well  as  of  his  name.” 

“ Don’t  you  call  Seth  r’yal,”  said  Job,  suspending  his  oc- 
cupation on  the  vegetable.  “ The  king  is  r’yal  and  fla’nty, 
but  neighbor  Sage  lets  Job  come  in  and  eat  like  a Christian.” 
“ That  lad  there  is  not  altogether  without  reason,  Major 
Lincoln,”  said  Polwarth  ; “ on  the  contrary,  he  discovers  an 
instinctive  knowledge  of  good  from  evil,  by  favoring  us  with 
his  company  at  the  hour  of  meals.” 

‘ ‘ The  poor  fellow  finds  but  little  at  home  to  tempt  him 
to  remain  there,  I fear,”  said  Lionel ; “ and  as  he  was  one 
of  the  first  acquaintances  I made  on  returning  to  my  native 
land,  I have  desired  Mr.  Sage  to  admit  him  at  all  proper 
hours  ; and  especially,  Polwarth,  at  those  times  when  he  can 
have  an  opportunity  of  doing  homage  to  your  skill.” 

”1  am  glad  to  see  him,”  said  Polwarth;  “ for  I love 
an  uninstructed  palate,  as  much  as  I admire  natveti  in  a 
woman.  Be  so  good  as  to  favor  me  with  a cut  from  the 
breast  of  that  wild  goose,  M’Fuse, — not  quite  so  far  for- 
ward, if  you  please ; your  migratory  birds  are  apt  to  be 
tough  about  the  wing, — but  simplicity  in  eating  is,  after 
all,  the  great  secret  of  life  ; that  and  a sufficiency  of  food.” 
“You  may  be  right  this  time,”  replied  the  grenadier, 
laughing  ; ■ ‘ for  this  fellow  made  one  of  the  flankers  of  the 
flock,  and  did  double  duty  in  wheeling,  I believe,  or  I have 
got  him  against  the  grain  too  ! But,  Polly,  you  have  not 
told  us  how  you  improve  in  your  light-infantry  exercises  of 
late.” 

By  this  time,  Polwarth  had  made  such  progress  in  the 
essential  part  of  his  meal,  as  to  have  recovered  in  some 
measure  his  usual  tone  of  good-nature,  and  he  answered 
with  less  gravity, — 

“ If  Gage  does  not  work  a reformation  in  our  habits,  he 
will  fag  us  all  to  death.  I suppose  you  know,  Leo,  that  all 
the  flank  companies  are  relieved  from  the  guards  to  learn  a 
new  species  of  exercise.  They  call  it  relieving  us,  but  the 
only  relief  I find  in  the  matter  is  when  we  lie  down  to  fire, 
— there  is  a luxurious  moment  or  two  then,  I must  confess.” 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


85 


“I  have  known  the  fact,  any  time  these  ten  days,  by 
your  meanings,”  returned  Lionel.  “ But  what  do  you  argue 
from  this  particular  exercise,  Captain  M’Fuse?  Does  Gage 
contemplate  more  than  the  customary  drills  ? ’ ’ 

“You  question  me  now,  sir,  on  a matter  in  which  I am 
uninstructed,”  said  the  grenadier.  “I  am  a soldier,  and 
obey  my  orders,  without  pretending  to  inquire  into  their 
objects  or  merits ; all  I know  is,  that  both  grenadiers  and 
light  infantry  are  taken  from  the  guards ; and  that  we 
travel  over  a good  deal  of  solid  earth  each  day,  in  the  way 
of  marching  and  countermarching,  to  the  manifest  discom- 
fiture and  reduction  of  Polly,  there,  who  loses  flesh  as  fast 
as  he  gains  ground.” 

‘ ‘ Do  you  think  so,  Mac  ? ’ 5 cried  the  delighted  captain  of 
light  infantry.  “ Then  I have  not  all  the  detestable  motion 
in  vain.  They  have  given  us  little  Harry  Skip  as  a drill- 
officer,  who,  I believe,  has  the  most  restless  foot  of  any  man 
in  his  majesty’s  service.  Do  you  join  with  me  in  opinion, 
Master  Sage  ? You  seem  to  meditate  on  the  subject  as  if 
it  had  some  secret  charm.” 

The  individual  to  whom  Polwarth  addressed  this  ques- 
tion, and  who  has  been  already  named,  was  standing  with  a 
plate  in  his  hand,  in  an  attitude  that  bespoke  close  atten- 
tion, with  a sudden  and  deep  interest  in  the  discourse, 
though  his  eyes  were  bent  on  the  floor,  and  his  face  was 
averted  as  if,  while  listening  earnestly,  he  had  a particular 
desire  to  be  unnoticed.  He  was  the  owner  of  the  house  in 
which  Lionel  had  taken  his  quarters.  His  family  had  been 
some  time  before  removed  into  the  country,  under  the  pre- 
tence of  his  inability  to  maintain  them  in  a place  destitute 
of  business  and  resources,  like  Boston  ; but  he  remained 
himself,  for  the  double  purpose  of  protecting  his  property 
and  serving  his  guests.  This  man  partook,  in  no  small 
degree,  of  the  qualities,  both  of  person  and  mind,  which 
distinguish  a large  class  among  his  countrymen.  In  the 
former,  he  was  rather  over  than  under  the  middle  stature  ; 
was  thin,  angular,  and  awkward,  but  possessing  an  unusual 
proportion  of  sinew  and  bone.  His  eyes  were  small,  black, 
scintillating,  and  it  was  not  easy  to  fancy  that  the  intelli- 


86 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


gence  they  manifested  was  unmingled  with  a large  propor- 
tion of  shrewd  cunning.  The  rest  of  his  countenance  was 
meagre,  sallow,  and  rigidly  demure.  Thus  called  upon,  on 
a sudden,  by  Polwarth  for  an  opinion,  Seth  answered,  with 
the  cautious  reserve  with  which  he  invariably  delivered 
himself, — 

“ The  adjutant  is  an  uneasy  man  ; but  that,  I suppose,  is 
so  much  the  better  for  a light-infantry  officer.  Captain 
Polwarth  must  find  it  considerably  jading  to  keep  the  step, 
now  the  general  has  ordered  these  new  doings  with  the 
soldiers.’ ’ 

“ And  what  may  be  your  opinion  of  these  doings,  as  you 
call  them,  Mr.  Sage?”  asked  M’Fuse.  “ You,  who  are  a 
man  of  observation,  should  understand  your  countrymen ; 
will  they  fight  ? ’ ’ 

“ A rat  will  fight  if  the  cats  pen  him,”  said  Seth,  without 
raising  his  eyes  from  his  occupation. 

‘ ‘ But  do  the  Americans  conceive  themselves  to  be 
penned? ” 

“Why,  that  is  pretty  much  as  people  think,  captain. 
The  country  was  in  a great  touse  about  the  stamps  and  the 
tea,  but  I always  said  such  folks  as  did  n’t  give  their  notes- 
of-hand,  and  had  no  great  relish  for  anything  more  than 
country  food,  would  n’t  find  themselves  cramped  by  the  laws, 
after  all.” 

‘ ‘ Then  you  see  no  great  oppression  in  being  asked  to  pay 
your  bit  of  a tax,  Master  Sage,”  cried  the  grenadier,  “to 
maintain  such  a worthy  fellow  as  myself  in  a decent  equi- 
page to  fight  your  battles  ? ’ ’ 

“Why,  as  to  that,  captain,  I suppose  we  can  do  pretty 
much  the  whole  of  our  own  fighting,  when  occasion  calls  ; 
though  I don’t  think  there  is  much  stomach  for  such  doings 
among  the  people,  without  need.” 

“But  what  do  you  think  the  ‘ Committee  of  Safety,’ 
and  your  ‘Sons  of  Liberty, ’ as  they  call  themselves,  really 
mean,  by  their  parades  of  ‘ minute-men,’  their  gathering  of 
provisions,  carrying  off  the  cannon,  and  such  other  formid- 
able and  appalling  preparations, — ha  ! honest  Seth  ? Do 
they  think  to  frighten  British  soldiers  with  the  roll  of  a 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


87 


drum,  or  are  they  amusing  themselves,  like  boys  in  the  holi- 
days, with  playing  war  ? ’ ’ 

“ I should  conclude,”  said  Seth,  with  undisturbed  gravity 
and  caution,  “ that  the  people  are  pretty  much  engaged,  and 
in  earnest.” 

“To  do  what?”  demanded  the  Irishman.  “To  forge 
their  own  chains,  that  we  may  fetter  them  in  truth  ? ” 

“Why,  seeing  that  they  have  burnt  the  stamps,  and 
thrown  the  tea  into  the  harbor,”  returned  Seth,  “ and,  since 
that,  have  taken  the  management  into  their  own  hands,  I 
should  rather  conclude  that  they  have  pretty  much  de- 
termined to  do  what  they  think  best.  ’ ’ 

Lionel  and  Polwarth  laughed  aloud,  and  the  former  ob- 
served,— 

“You  appear  not  to  come  to  conclusions  with  our  host, 
Captain  M’Fuse,  notwithstanding  so  much  is  determined. 
Is  it  well  understood,  Mr.  Sage,  that  large  reinforcements 
are  coming  to  the  colonies,  and  to  Boston  in  particular?  ” 

“Why,  yes,”  returned  Seth  ; “it  seems  to  be  pretty  gen- 
erally contemplated  on.” 

“ And  what  is  the  result  of  these  contemplations  ? ” 

Seth  paused  a moment,  as  if  uncertain  whether  he  was 
master  of  the  other’s  meaning,  before  he  replied, — 

“Why,  as  the  country  is  considerably  engaged  in  the 
business,  there  are  some  who  think,  if  the  ministers  don’t 
open  the  port,  that  it  will  be  done  without  much  further 
words  by  the  people.” 

“Do  you  know,”  said  Lionel,  gravely,  “that  such  an 
attempt  would  lead  directly  to  a civil  war  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ I suppose  it  is  safe  to  calculate  that  such  doings  would 
bring  on  disturbances,”  returned  his  phlegmatic  host. 

‘ ‘ And  you  speak  of  it,  sir,  as  a thing  not  to  be  depre- 
cated or  averted  by  every  possible  means  in  the  power  of 
the  nation  ! ’ ’ 

“ If  the  port  is  opened,  and  the  right  to  tax  given  up,” 
said  Seth,  calmly,  “ I can  find  a man  in  Boston  who  ’ll  en- 
gage to  let  them  draw  all  the  blood  that  will  be  spilt,  from 
his  own  veins,  for  nothing.” 

“And  who  may  that  redoubtable  individual  be,  Master 


88 


%ionc i Xtncoin 


Sage  ? ’ 5 cried  M’  Fuse.  ‘ 4 Y our  own  plethoric  person  ? 
How  now,  Doyle — to  what  am  I indebted  for  the  honor 
of  this  visit?” 

This  sudden  question  was  put  by  the  captain  of  grena- 
diers to  the  orderly  of  his  own  company,  who  at  that  in- 
stant filled  the  door  of  the  apartment  with  his  huge  frame, 
in  the  attitude  of  military  respect,  as  if  about  to  address  his 
officer. 

‘ ‘ Orders  have  come  down,  sir,  to  parade  the  men  at  half 
an  hour  after  tattoo,  and  to  be  in  readiness  for  active  service.” 

The  three  gentlemen  rose  together  from  their  chairs  at 
this  intelligence,  while  M’Fuse  exclaimed.  “A  night- 
march  ! Pooh  ! We  are  to  be  sent  back  to  garrison  duty, 
I suppose  ; the  companies  in  the  line  grow  sleepy,  and  wish 
a relief.  Gage  might  have  taken  a more  suitable  time,  than 
to  put  gentlemen  on  their  march  so  soon  after  such  a feast 
as  this  of  yours,  Polly.” 

4 ‘ There  is  some  deeper  meaning  to  so  extraordinary  an 
order,”  interrupted  Lionel ; “ there  goes  the  tap  of  the  tat- 
too, this  instant  ! Are  no  other  troops  but  your  company 
ordered  to  parade  ? ’ ’ 

“ The  whole  battalion  is  under  the  same  orders,  your 
honor,  and  so  is  the  battalion  of  light  infantry  ; I was 
commanded  to  report  it  so  to  Captain  Polwarth,  if  I saw 
him.” 

“This  bears  some  meaning,  gentlemen,”  said  Lionel, 
“ and  it  is  necessary  to  be  looked  to.  If  either  corps  leaves 
the  town  to-night,  I will  march  with  it  as  a volunteer  ; for 
it  is  my  business,  just  now,  to  examine  into  the  state  of  the 
country.” 

“That  we  shall  march  to-night,  is  sure,  your  honor,” 
added  the  sergeant,  with  the  confidence  of  an  old  soldier  ; 
“ but  how  far,  or  on  what  road,  is  known  only  to  the  officers 
of  the  staff ; though  the  men  think  we  are  to  go  out  by  the 
colleges.” 

‘ ‘ And  what  has  put  so  learned  an  opinion  in  their  silly 
heads  ? ” demanded  his  captain. 

“ One  of  the  men  who  has  been  on  leave,  has  just  got  in, 
and  reports  that  a squad  of  gentlemen  from  the  army  dined 


Xtonel  Xincolrt 


89 


near  them,  your  honor,  and  that  as  night  set  in  they 
mounted,  and  began  to  patrol  the  roads  in  that  direction. 
He  was  met  and  questioned  by  four  of  them  as  he  crossed 
the  flats.’ ’ 

“ All  this  confirms  my  conjectures,”  cried  Lionel  ; “ there 
is  a man  who  might  now  prove  of  important  service — Job 
— where  is  the  simpleton,  Meriton  ? ” 

‘ ‘ He  was  called  out,  sir,  a minute  since,  and  has  left  the 
house.  ’ ’ 

“Then  send  in  Mr.  Sage,”  continued  the  young  man, 
musing  as  he  spoke.  A moment  after  it  was  reported  to 
him  that  Seth  had  strangely  disappeared  also. 

“Curiosity  has  led  him  to  the  barracks,”  said  Lionel, 
“ where  duty  calls  you,  gentlemen.  I will  despatch  a little 
business,  and  join  you  there  in  an  hour  ; you  cannot  march 
short  of  that  time.” 

The  bustle  of  a general  departure  succeeded.  Lionel 
threw  his  cloak  into  the  arms  of  Meriton,  to  whom  he  de- 
livered his  orders,  took  his  arms,  and  making  his  apologies 
to  his  guests,  he  left  the  house  with  the  manner  of  one  who 
saw  a pressing  necessity  to  be  prompt.  M’Fuse  proceeded 
to  equip  himself  with  the  deliberation  of  a soldier  who  was 
too  much  practised  to  be  easily  disconcerted.  Notwithstand- 
ing his  great  deliberation,  the  delay  of  Polwarth,  however, 
eventually  vanquished  the  patience  of  the  grenadier,  who 
exclaimed,  on  hearing  the  other  repeat,  for  the  fourth  time, 
an  order  concerning  the  preservation  of  certain  viands,  to 
which  he  appeared  to  cling  in  spirit,  after  a carnal  separa- 
tion was  directed  by  fortune. 

“ Poh  ! poh  ! man,”  exclaimed  the  Irishman  ; “why  will 
you  bother  yourself  on  the  eve  of  a march  with  such  epicu- 
rean propensities  ! It ’s  the  soldier  who  should  show  your 
hermits  and  anchorites  an  example  of  mortification  ; besides, 
Polly,  this  affectation  of  care  and  provision  is  the  less  ex- 
cusable in  yourself — you,  who  have  been  well  aware  that 
we  were  to  march  on  a secret  expedition  this  very  night  on 
which  you  seem  so  much  troubled.” 

“ I ! ” exclaimed  Polwarth  ; “ as  I hope  to  eat  another 
jneal,  I am  as  ignorant  a$  the  meanest  corporal  in  the  army 


9° 


Xionel  Xlrtcolrt 


of  the  whole  transaction.  Why  do  you  suspect  other- 
wise ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Trifles  tell  the  old  campaigner  when  and  where  the 
blow  is  to  be  struck,”  returned  M’Fuse,  coolly  drawing  his 
'military  overcoat  tighter  to  his  large  frame  ; ‘ ‘ have  I not, 
with  my  own  eyes,  seen  you,  within  the  hour,  provision  a 
certain  captain  of  light  infantry  after  a very  heavy  fashion  ? 
Damn  it,  man  ! do  you  think  I have  served  these  five-and- 
twenty  years,  and  do  not  know  that  when  a garrison  begins 
to  fill  its  granaries,  it  expects  a siege  ? ” 

‘ ‘ I have  paid  no  more  than  a suitable  compliment  to  the 
entertainment  of  Major  Lincoln,”  returned  Polwarth  ; “but 
so  far  from  having  had  any  very  extraordinary  appetite,  I 
have  not  found  myself  in  a condition  to  do  all  the  justice  I 
could  wish  to  several  of  the  dishes.  Mr.  Meriton,  I will 
thank  you  to  have  the  remainder  of  that  bird  sent  down  to 
the  barracks,  where  my  man  will  receive  it ; and,  as  it  may 
be  a long  march  and  a hungry  one,  add  the  tongue,  and  a 
fowl,  and  some  of  the  ragout ; we  can  warm  it  up  at  any 
farm-house.  We  ’ll  take  the  piece  of  beef,  Mac ; Leo  has 
a particular  taste  for  a cold  cut ; and  you  might  put  up  the 
ham,  also  ; it  will  keep  better  than  anything  else,  if  we 
should  be  out  long — and — and — I believe  that  will  do, 
Meriton.  ’ ’ 

“ I am  as  much  rejoiced  to  hear  it  as  I should  be  to  hear 
a proclamation  of  war  read  at  Charing  Cross,”  cried  M’Fuse  ; 
“ you  should  have  been  a commissary,  Polly  ; nature  meant 
you  for  an  army  sutler  ! ’ ’ 

“Laugh  as  you  will,  Mac,”  returned  the  good-humored 
Polwarth  ; “I  shall  hear  your  thanks  when  we  halt  for 
breakfast ; but  I attend  you  now.” 

As  they  left  the  house,  he  continued,  “ I hope  Gage 
means  no  more  than  to  push  us  a little  in  advance  with  a 
view  to  protect  the  foragers  and  the  supplies  of  the  army. 
Such  a situation  would  have  very  pretty  advantages  ; for  a 
system  might  be  established  that  would  give  the  mess  of  the 
light  corps  the  choice  of  the  whole  market.” 

“’Tis  a mighty  preparation  about  some  old  iron  gun, 
which  would  cost  a man  his  life  to  put  a match  to, ’ 1 returned 


Xtonel  Xincoln 


91 


M’Fuse,  cavalierly  ; “ for  my  part,  Captain  Polwarth,  if  we 
are  to  fight  these  colonists  at  all,  I would  do  the  thing  like 
a man,  and  allow  the  lads  to  gather  together  a suitable 
arsenal,  that  when  we  come  to  blows,  it  may  be  a military 
affair.  As  it  now  stands,  I should  be  ashamed,  as  I am  a 
soldier  and  an  Irishman,  to  bid  my  fellows  pull  a trigger  or 
make  a charge  on  a set  of  peasants,  whose  fire-arms  look 
more  like  rusty  water-pipes  than  muskets,  and  who  have 
half  a dozen  cannon  with  touch-holes  that  a man  may  put 
his  head  in,  with  muzzles  just  large  enough  to  throw  mar- 
bles. ’ ’ 

“ I don’t  know,  Mac,”  said  Polwarth,  while  they  diligently 
pursued  their  way  towards  the  quarters  of  their  men  ; ‘ ‘ even 
a marble  may  destroy  a man’s  appetite  for  his  dinner  ; and 
the  countrymen  possess  a great  advantage  over  us  in  com- 
manding the  supplies ; the  difference  in  equipments  would 
not  more  than  balance  the  odds.  ’ ’ 

” I wish  to  disturb  no  gentleman’s  opinion  on  matters  of 
military  discretion,  Captain  Polwarth,”  said  the  grenadier, 
with  an  air  of  high  martial  pride  ; ‘ ‘ but  I take  it  there  exists 
a material  difference  between  a soldier  and  a butcher,  though 
killing  be  a business  common  to  both.  I repeat,  sir,  I hope 
that  this  secret  expedition  is  for  a more  worthy  object  than 
to  deprive  those  poor  devils,  with  whom  we  are  about  to 
fight,  of  the  means  of  making  a good  battle ; and  I add,  sir, 
that  such  is  sound  military  doctrine,  without  regarding  who 
may  choose  to  controvert  it.” 

“Your  sentiments  are  generous  and  manly,  Mac;  but, 
after  all,  there  is  both  a physical  and  moral  obligation  on 
every  man  to  eat ; and  if  starvation  be  the  consequence  of 
permitting  your  enemies  to  bear  arms,  it  becomes  a solemn 
duty  to  deprive  them  of  their  weapons.  No,  no ; I will 
support  Gage  in  such  a measure,  at  present,  as  highly 
military.” 

“ And  he  is  much  obliged  to  you,  sir,  for  your  support,” 
returned  the  other.  ‘ ‘ I apprehend,  Captain  Polwarth, 
whenever  the  Lieutenant-general  Gage  finds  it  necessary  to 
lean  on  anyone  for  extraordinary  assistance,  he  will  remem- 
ber that  there  is  a regiment  called  the  Royal  Irish  in  the 


9* 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


country,  and  that  he  is  not  entirely  ignorant  of  the  qualities 
of  the  people  of  his  own  nation.  You  have  done  well,  Cap- 
tain Polwarth,  to  choose  the  light-infantry  service  ; they  are 
a set  of  foragers,  and  can  help  themselves  ; but  the  grena- 
diers, thank  God,  love  to  encounter  men,  and  not  cattle,  in 
the  field.  ’ ’ 

How  long  the  good-nature  of  Polwarth  would  have  en- 
dured the  increasing  taunts  of  the  Irishman,  who  was  exas- 
perating himself  gradually  by  his  own  arguments,  there  is  no 
possibility  of  determining  ; for  their  arrival  at  the  barracks 
put  an  end  to  the  controversy  and  to  the  feelings  it  was 
beginning  to  engender. 


J 

CHAPTER  VIII. 


“ Preserve  thy  sighs,  unthrifty  girl ! 

To  purify  the  air  ; 

Thy  tears  to  thread,  instead  of  pearl, 

On  bracelets  of  thy  hair.” 

DA  VENA  NT. 

LIONEE  might  have  blushed  to  acknowledge  the  secret 
and  inexplicable  influence  which  his  unknown  and 
mysterious  friend  Ralph  had  obtained  over  his  feel- 
ings, but  which  induced  him,  on  leaving  his  own 
quarters  thus  hastily,  to  take  his  way  into  the  lower  parts  of 
the  town,  in  quest  of  the  residence  of  Abigail  Pray.  He  had 
not  visited  the  sombre  tenement  of  this  woman  since  the  night 
of  his  arrival,  but  its  proximity  to  the  well-known  town-hall, 
as  well  as  the  quaint  architecture  of  the  building  itself,  had 
frequently  brought  its  exterior  under  his  observation  in  the 
course  of  his  rambles  through  the  place  of  his  nativity.  A 
guide  being  consequently  unnecessary,  he  took  the  most  di- 
rect and  frequented  route  to  the  Dock  Square.  When  Eionel 
issutd  into  the  street,  he  found  a deep  darkness  already  en- 
veloping the  peninsula  of  Boston,  as  if  nature  had  lent  her- 
self to  the  secret  designs  of  the  British  commandant.  The 
fine  strain  of  a shrill  fife  was  playing  among  the  naked  hills 
of  the  place,  accompanied  by  the  occasional  and  measured 
taps  of  the  sullen  drum  ; and,  at  moments,  the  full,  rich 
notes  of  the  horns  would  rise  from  the  common,  and,  borne 
on  the  night  air,  sweep  along  the  narrow  streets,  causing  the 
nerves  of  the  excited  young  soldier  to  thrill  with  a stern 
pleasure,  as  he  stepped  proudly  along.  The  practised  ear, 
however,  detected  no  other  sounds  in  the  music  than  the 


93 


94 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


usual  nightly  signal  of  rest ; and  when  the  last  melting  strains 
of  the  horns  seemed  to  be  lost  in  the  clouds,  a stillness  fell 
upon  the  town  like  the  deep  and  slumbering  quiet  of  mid- 
night. He  paused  a moment  before  the  gates  of  Province 
House,  and  after  examining,  with  an  attentive  eye,  the  win- 
dows of  the  building,  he  spoke  to  the  grenadier,  who  had 
stopped  in  his  short  walk  to  note  the  curious  stranger. 

‘‘You  should  have  company  within,  sentinel,”  he  said, 

‘ ‘ by  the  brilliant  light  from  tho.se  windows.  ’ ’ 

The  rattling  of  Lionel’ s side-arms,  as  he  pointed  with  his 
hand  in  the  direction  of  the  illuminated  apartment,  taught 
the  soldier  that  he  was  addressed  by  his  superior,  and  he 
answered  respectfully, — 

“ It  does  not  become  one  such  as  I,  to  pretend  to  know 
much  of  what  his  betters  do,  your  honor ; but  I stood  before 
the  quarters  of  General  Wolfe  the  very  night  we  went  up 
to  the  Plains  of  Abram  ; and  I think  an  old  soldier  can  tell 
when  a movement  is  at  hand  without  asking  his  superiors 
any  impertinent  questions.” 

“I  suppose,  from  your  remark,  the  general  holds  a 
council  to-night  ?”  said  Lionel. 

“No  one  has  gone  in,  sir,  since  I have  been  posted,” 
returned  the  sentinel,  “but  the  lieutenant-colonel  of  the 
ioth,  that  great  Northumbrian  lord,  and  the  old  major  of 
marines.  A great  war-dog  is  that  old  man,  your  honor, 
and  it  is  not  often  he  comes  to  Province  House  for  noth- 
ing.” 

“A  good  night  to  you,  my  old  comrade,”  said  Lionel, 
walking  away  ; “ ’t  is  probably  some  consultation  concerning 
the  new  exercises  that  you  practise.” 

The  grenadier  shook  his  head,  as  if  unconcerned,  and 
resumed  his  march  with  his  customary  steadiness.  A very 
few  minutes  now  brought  Lionel  before  the  low  door  of 
Abigail  Pray,  where  he  again  stopped,  struck  with  the  con- 
trast between  the  gloomy,  dark,  and  unguarded  threshold 
over  which  he  was  about  to  pass,  and  the  gay  portal  he  had 
just  left.  Urged,  however,  by  his  feelings,  the  young  man 
paused  but  a moment  before  he  tapped  lightly  for  admis- 
sion. After  repeating  his  summons,  and  hearing  no  reply, 


Xfcrnel  ^Lincoln 


9 s 


he  lifted  the  latch  and  entered  the  building  without  further 
ceremony.  The  large  and  vacant  apartment  in  which  he 
found  himself  was  silent  and  dreary  as  the  still  streets  he 
had  quitted.  Groping  his  way  towards  the  little  room  in 
the  tower,  where  he  met  the  mother  of  Job,  as  before  related, 
Lionel  found  that  apartment  also  tenantless  and  dark.  He 
was  turning  in  disappointment  to  quit  the  place,  when  a 
feeble  ray  fell  from  the  loft  of  the  building,  and  settled  on 
the  foot  of  a rude  ladder  which  formed  the  means  of  com- 
munication with  its  upper  apartments.  Hesitating  a single 
moment  how  to  decide,  he  then  yielded  to  his  anxiety,  and 
ascended  to  the  floor  above,  with  steps  as  light  as  extreme 
caution  could  render  them.  Like  the  basement,  the  building 
was  subdivided  here  into  a large  open  wareroom,  and  a small 
rudely  finished  apartment  in  each  of  its  towers.  Following 
the  rays  from  a candle,  he  stood  on  the  threshold  of  one  of 
these  little  rooms,  in  which  he  found  the  individual  of  whom 
he  was  in  quest.  The  old  man  was  seated  on  the  only 
broken  chair  which  the  loft  contained,  and  before  him,  on 
the  simple  bundle  of  straw  which  would  seem,  by  the  gar- 
ments thrown  loosely  over  the  pile,  to  be  intended  as  his 
place  of  rest,  lay  a large  map,  spread  for  inspection,  wThich 
his  glazed  and  sunken  eyes  appeared  to  be  intently  engaged 
in  marking.  Lionel  hesitated  again,  while  he  regarded  the 
white  hairs  which  fell  across  the  temples  of  the  stranger,  as 
he  bowed  his  head  in  his  employment,  imparting  a wild  and 
melancholy  expression  to  his  remarkable  countenance,  and 
seeming  to  hallow  their  possessor  by  the  air  of  great  age 
and  attendant  care  that  they  imparted. 

“I  have  come  to  seek  you,”  the  young  man  at  length 
said,  “since  you  no  longer  deem  me  worthy  of  your  care.” 

“ You  come  too  late,”  returned  Ralph,  without  betraying 
the  least  emotion  at  the  suddenness  of  the  interruption,  or 
even  raising  his  eyes  from  the  map  he  studied  so  intently  ; 
“too  late  at  least  to  avert  calamity,  if  not  to  learn  wisdom 
from  its  lessons.” 

“You  know,  then,  of  the  secret  movements  of  the  night ! ” 

“Old  age,  like  mine,  seldom  sleeps,”  returned  Ralph, 
looking  for  the  first  time  at  his  visitor;  “for  the  eternal 


96 


Xtonei  Xtncoln 


night  of  death  promises  a speedy  repose.  I,  too,  served  an 
apprenticeship  in  my  youth  to  your  trade  of  blood.” 

“Your  watchfulness  and  experience  have  then  detected 
the  signs  of  preparation  in  the  garrison?  Have  they  also 
discovered  the  objects  and  probable  consequences  of  the 
enterprise?  ” 

“ Both.  Gage  weakly  thinks  to  crush  the  germ  of  liberty 
which  has  already  quickened  in  the  land,  by  lopping  its 
feeble  branches,  when  it  is  rooted  in  the  hearts  of  the  people. 
He  thinks  that  bold  thoughts  can  be  humbled  by  the  destruc- 
tion of  magazines.” 

“ it  is  then  only  a measure  of  precaution  that  he  is  about 
to  take  ? ’ ’ 

The  old  man  shook  his  head  mournfully  as  he  an-  j 
swered, — 

“ It  will  prove  a measure  of  blood.” 

‘ ‘ I intend  to  accompany  the  detachment  into  the  coun-  j 
try,”  said  Lionel ; “it  will  probably  take  post  at  some  little 
distance  in  the  interior,  and  it  will  afford  me  a fitting  oppor- 
tunity to  make  those  inquiries  which  you  know  are  so  near 
my  heart,  and  in  which  you  have  promised  to  assist ; it  is 
to  consult  on  the  means,  that  I have  now  sought  you.” 

The  countenance  of  the  stranger  seemed  to  lose  its  char- 
acter  of  melancholy  reflection,  as  Lionel  spoke,  and  his  eyes 
moved,  vacant  and  unmeaning,  over  the  naked  rafters  above 
him,  passing  in  their  wanderings  across  the  surface  of  the 
unheeded  map  again,  until  they  fell  upon  the  face  of  thej 
astonished  youth,  where  they  remained  settled  for  more  than 
a minute,  fixed  in  the  glazed,  riveted  look  of  death.  The 
lips  of  Lionel  had  already  opened  in  anxious  inquiry,  when 
the  expression  of  life  shot  again  into  the  features  of  Ralph, 
with  the  suddenness,  and  with  an  appearance  of  the  phys- 
ical reality  with  which  light  flashes  from  the  sun  when 
emerging  from  a cloud. 

‘ ‘ You  are  ill ! ” Lionel  exclaimed. 

“Leave  me,”  said  the  old  man,  “leave  me.” 

“Surely  not  at  such  a moment,  and  alone.” 

“ I bid  you  leave  me ; we  shall  meet  as  you  desire,  in  the 
country.” 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


97 


“You  would  then  have  me  accompany  the  troops,  and 
expect  your  coming?  ” 

44  Both/’ 

44  Pardon  me,”  said  Lionel,  dropping  his  eyes  in  embar- 
rassment, and  speaking  with  hesitation  ; 4 4 but  your  present 
abode,  and  the  appearance  of  your  attire,  is  an  evidence 
that  old  age  has  come  upon  you  when  you  are  not  altogether 
prepared  to  meet  its  sufferings.  ” 

44  You  would  offer  me  money  ? ” 

44  By  accepting  it,  I shall  become  the  obliged  party.” 

4 4 When  my  wants  exceed  my  means,  young  man,  your 
offer  shall  be  remembered.  Go,  now  ; there  is  no  time  for 
delay.  ’ ’ 

44  But  I would  not  leave  you  alone  ; the  woman,  the  ter- 
inagant,  is  better  than  none.” 

4 4 She  is  absent.  ’ ’ 

44  And  the  boy — the  changeling  has  the  feelings  of  hu- 
manity, and  would  aid  you  in  extremity.” 

44  He  is  better  employed  than  in  propping  the  steps  of  a 
useless  old  man.  Go  then,  I entreat — I command,  sir,  that 
you  leave  me.  ’ ’ 

The  firm  if  not  haughty  manner  in  which  the  other  re- 
peated his  desire,  taught  Lionel  that  he  had  nothing  more 
to  expect  at  present,  and  he  obeyed  reluctantly,  by  slowly 
leaving  the  apartment  ; and  as  soon  as  he  had  descended 
the  ladder,  he  began  to  retrace  his  steps  towards  his  own 
quarters.  In  crossing  the  light  drawbridge  thrown  over  the 
narrow  dock  already  mentioned,  his  contemplations  were 
first  disturbed  by  the  sounds  of  voices  at  no  great  distance, 
apparently  conversing  in  tones  that  were  not  intended  to  be 
heard  by  every  ear.  It  was  a moment  when  each  unusual 
incident  was  likely  to  induce  inquiry,  and  Lionel  stopped  to 
examine  two  men,  who,  at  a little  distance,  held  their  secret 
and  suppressed  communications.  He  had,  however,  paused 
but  an  instant,  when  the  whisperers  separated  : one  walk- 
ing leisurely  up  the  centre  of  the  square,  entering  under 
one  of  the  arches  of  the  market-place,  and  the  other 
coming  directly  across  the  bridge  on  which  he  himself  was 
standing. 

7 


98 


Uonel  ^Lincoln 


“ What,  Job,  do  I find  you  here,  whispering  and  plotting 
in  the  Dock  Square!”  exclaimed  Lionel  ; “what  secrets 
can  you  have,  that  require  the  cover  of  night  ? ’ ’ 

“Job  lives  there,  in  the  old  ware’ us’,”  said  the  lad  sul- 
lenly ; “Nab  has  plenty  of  house-room,  now  the  king 
won’t  let  the  people  bring  in  their  goods.” 

‘ ‘ But  whither  are  you  going  ? into  the  water  ? surely  the 
road  to  your  bed  cannot  be  through  the  town  dock.” 

“Nab  wants  fish  to  eat,  as  well  as  a ruff  to  keep  off  the 
rain,”  said  Job,  dropping  lightly  from  the  bridge  into  a 
small  canoe,  which  was  fastened  to  one  of  its  posts,  ‘ ‘ and 
now  the  king  has  closed  the  harbor,  the  fish  have  to  come 
up  in  the  dark  ; for  come  they  will ; Boston  fish  ain’t  to  be 
shut  out  by  acts  of  Parliament  ! ’ ’ 

“ Poor  lad  ! ” exclaimed  Lionel,  “return  to  your  home 
and  your  bed  ; here  is  money  to  buy  food  for  your  mother, 
if  she  suffers ; you  will  draw  a shot  from  some  of  the  sen- 
tinels by  going  about  the  harbor  thus  at  night.” 

“Job  can  see  a ship  farther  than  a ship  can  see  Job,”  re- 
turned the  other ; “ and  if  they  should  kill  Job,  they  need  n’t 
think  to  shoot  a Boston  boy  without  some  stir.” 

Further  dialogue  was  precluded  ; the  canoe  gliding  along 
the  outer  dock  into  the  harbor,  with  a stillness  and  swiftness 
that  showed  the  idiot  was  not  ignorant  of  the  business  which 
he  had  undertaken.  Lionel  resumed  his  walk,  and  was  pass- 
ing the  head  of  the  square,  when  he  encountered,  face  to 
face,  under  the  light  of  a lamp,  the  man  whose  figure  he 
had  seen  but  a minute  before  to  issue  from  beneath  the 
town-hall.  A mutual  desire  to  ascertain  the  identity  of  each 
other  drew  them  together. 

“We  meet  again,  Major  Lincoln  ! ” said  the  interesting 
stranger  Lionel  remembered  to  have  seen  at  the  political 
meeting.  ‘ ‘ Our  interviews  appear  to  be  ordained  in  secret 
places.  ’ ’ 

“And  Job  Pray  would  seem  to  be  the  presiding  spirit,” 
returned  the  young  soldier.  “You  parted  from  him  but 
now?  ” 

“ I trust,  sir,”  said  the  stranger,  gravely,  “ that  this  is 
not  a land,  nor  have  we  fallen  on  times,  when  and  where 


Xionel  Xtncolrt 


99 


an  honest  man  dare  not  say  that  he  has  spoken  to  whom 
he  pleases.” 

“Certainly,  sir,  it  is  not  for  me  to  prohibit  the  inter- 
course,” returned  Lionel.  “You  spoke  of  our  fathers; 
mine  is  well  known  to  you,  it  would  seem,  though  to  me 
you  are  a stranger.” 

‘ ‘ And  may  be  so  yet  a little  longer,  ’ ’ said  the  other, 
“though  I think  the  time  is  at  hand  when  men  will  be 
known  in  their  true  characters ; until  then,  Major  Lincoln, 
I bid  you  adieu.” 

Without  waiting  for  any  reply,  the  stranger  took  a differ- 
ent direction  from  that  which  Lionel  was  pursuing,  and 
walked  away  with  the  swiftness  of  one  who  was  pressed 
with  urgent  business.  Lionel  soon  ascended  into  the  upper 
part  of  the  town,  with  the  intention  of  going  into  Tremont 
Street,  to  communicate  his  design  to  accompany  the  expe- 
dition. It  was  now  apparent  to  the  young  man  that  a rumor 
of  a contemplated  movement  of  the  troops  was  spreading 
secretly,  but  swiftly,  among  the  people.  He  passed  several 
groups  of  earnest  and  excited  townsmen,  conferring  together 
at  the  corners  of  the  streets,  from  some  of  whom  he  over- 
heard the  startling  intelligence  that  the  neck,  the  only 
approach  to  the  place  by  land,  was  closed  by  a line  of 
sentinels  ; and  that  guard-boats  from  the  vessels  of  war 
were  encircling  the  peninsula  in  a manner  to  intercept 
the  communication  with  the  adjacent  country.  Still  no 
indications  of  a military  alarm  could  be  discovered, 
though,  at  times  a stifled  hum,  like  the  notes  of  busy 
preparation,  was  borne  along  by  the  damp  breezes  of  the 
night,  and  mingled  with  those  sounds  of  a spring  evening 
which  increased  as  he  approached  the  skirts  of  the 
dwellings.  In  Tremont  Street,  Lionel  found  no  appear- 
ance of  that  excitement,  which  was  spreading  so  rapidly 
in  the  old  and  lower  parts  of  the  town.  He  passed  into 
his  own  room  without  meeting  any  of  the  family,  and 
having  completed  his  brief  arrangements,  he  was  descend- 
ing to  inquire  for  his  kinswomen,  wrhen  the  voice  of  Mrs. 
Lechmere,  proceeding  from  a small  apartment  appropriated 
to  her  own  use,  arrested  his  steps.  Anxious  to  take  leave 


IOO 


Xfonel  ^Lincoln 


in  person,  he  approached  the  half  open  door,  and  would 
have  asked  permission  to  enter  had  not  his  eye  rested  on 
the  person  of  Abigail  Pray,  who  was  in  earnest  conference 
with  the  mistress  of  the  mansion. 

“ A man  aged,  and  poor,  say  you  ? ” observed  Mrs.  Lech- 
mere,  at  that  instant. 

“ And  one  that  seems  to  know  all,”  interrupted  Abigail, 
glancing  her  eyes  about  with  an  expression  of  superstitious 
terror. 

“All!”  echoed  Mrs.  Lechmere,  her  lip  trembling  more 
with  apprehension  than  age;  “ and  he  arrived  with  Major 
Lincoln,  say  you?” 

‘ ‘ In  the  same  ship  ; and  it  seems  that  Heaven  has  ordained 
that  he  shall  dwell  with  me  in  my  poverty,  as  a punishment 
for  my  great  sin  ! ’ ’ 

“ But  why  do  you  tolerate  his  presence,  if  it  be  irksome  ? ” 
said  Mrs.  Lechmere  ; “ you  are  at  least  the  mistress  of  your 
own  dwelling.” 

“ It  has  pleased  God  that  my  home  shall  be  the  home  of 
any  who  are  so  miserable  as  to  need  one.  He  has  the  same 
right  to  live  in  the  warehouse  that  I have.” 

“ You  have  the  rights  of  a woman,  and  of  first  possession,” 
said  Mrs.  Lechmere,  with  that  unyielding  severity  of  manner 
that  Lionel  had  often  observed  before  ; “I  would  turn  him 
into  the  street,  like  a dog.” 

“ Into  the  street ! ” repeated  Abigail,  again  looking  about 
her  in  secret  terror  ; ‘ ‘ speak  lower,  Madam  Lechmere,  for 
the  love  of  Heaven.  I dare  not  even  look  at  him:  he  reminds 
me  of  all  I have  ever  known,  and  of  all  the  evil  I have  ever 
done,  by  his  scorching  eye — and  yet  I cannot  tell  why  ; and 
then  Job  worships  him  as  a god,  and  if  I should  offend  him, 
he  could  easily  worm  from  the  child  all  that  you  and  I wish 
so  much — ’ 5 

“How!”  exclaimed  Mrs.  Lechmere,  in  a voice  husky 
with  horror,  ‘ ‘ have  you  been  so  base  as  to  make  a confidant 
of  that  fool  ? ” 

“That  fool  is  the  child  of  my  bosom,”  said  Abigail,  raising 
her  hands,  as  if  imploring  pardon  for  the  indiscretion.  “Ah  ! 
Madam  Lechmere,  you,  who  are  rich,  and  great,  and  happy, 


^Lionel  Xincolrt 


IOI 


and  have  such  a sweet  and  sensible  grandchild,  cannot 
know  how  to  love  one  like  Job  ; but  when  the  heart  is  loaded 
and  heavy,  it  throws  its  burden  on  any  that  will  bear  it ; 
and  Job  is  my  child,  though  he  is  but  little  better  than  an 
idiot  ! ” 

It  was  by  no  trifling  exertion  of  his  breeding  that  Lionel 
was  enabled  to  profit  by  the  inability  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  to 
reply,  and  to  turn  away  from  the  spot,  and  cease  to  listen 
to  a conversation  that  was  not  intended  for  his  ear.  He 
reached  the  parlor,  and  threw  himself  on  one  of  its  settees, 
before  he  was  conscious  that  he  was  no  longer  alone  or 
unobserved. 

‘ ‘ What ! Major  Lincoln  returned  from  his  revels  thus  early, 
and  armed  like  a bandit,  to  his  teeth  ! ’ ’ exclaimed  the  play- 
ful voice  of  Cecil  Dynevor,  who,  unheeded,  was  in  possession 
of  the  opposite  seat,  when  he  entered  the  room. 

Lionel  started,  and  rubbed  his  forehead,  like  a man  awak- 
ing from  a dream,  as  he  answered, — 

“Yes,  a bandit,  or  any  other  opprobrious  name  you  please  ; 
I deserve  them  all.” 

“Surely,”  said  Cecil,  turning  pale,  “ none  other  dare  use 
such  language  of  Major  Lincoln,  and  he  does  it  unjustly  ! ” 
“What  foolish  nonsense  have  I uttered,  Miss  Dynevor?” 
cried  Lionel,  recovering  his  recollection.  “I  was  lost  in 
thought,  and  heard  your  language  without  comprehending 
its  meaning.” 

“ Still,  you  are  armed  ; a sword  is  not  a usual  instrument 
at  your  side,  and  now  you  bear  even  pistols  ! ” 

“Yes,”  returned  the  young  soldier,  laying  aside  his  dan- 
gerous implements  ; ‘ ‘ yes,  I am  about  to  march  as  a volun- 
teer, with  a party  that  go  into  the  country  to-night,  and  I 
take  these  because  I would  affect  something  very  warlike, 
though  you  well  know  how  peaceably  I am  disposed.” 
“March  into  the  country — and  in  the  dead  of  night  !” 
said  Cecil,  catching  her  breath,  and  turning  pale.  “And 
does  Lionel  Lincoln  volunteer  on  such  a duty  ? ’ ’ 

“ I volunteer  to  perform  no  other  duty  than  to  be  a witness 
of  whatever  may  occur  ; you  are  not  more  ignorant  yourself 
of  the  nature  of  the  expedition  than  I am  at  this  moment.  ’ ’ 


102 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


“Then  remain  where  you  are,”  said  Cecil,  firmly,  “ and 
enlist  not  in  an  enterprise  that  may  be  unholy  in  its  purposes 
and  disgraceful  in  its  results.’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Of  the  former  I am  innocent,  whatever  they  may  be,  nor 
will  they  be  affected  by  my  presence  or  absence.  There  is 
little  danger  of  disgrace  in  accompanying  the  grenadiers  and 
light  infantry  of  this  army,  Miss  Dynevor,  though  it  should 
be  against  treble  their  numbers  of  chosen  troops.” 

“Then  it  would  seem,  ” said  Agnes  Danforth,  speaking 
as  she  entered  the  room,  “that  our  friend  Mercury,  that 
feather  of  a man,  Captain  Polwarth,  is  to  be  one  of  these 
night  depredators  ! Heaven  shield  the  hen-roosts  ! ” 

“You  have,  then,  heard  the  intelligence,  Agnes?  ” 

4 ‘ I have  heard  that  men  are  arming,  and  that  boats  are 
rowing  round  the  town  in  all  directions,  and  that  it  is  forbid- 
den to  enter  or  quit  Boston,  as  we  were  wont  to  do,  Cecil,  at 
such  hours  and  in  such  fashion  as  suited  us  plain  Americans,” 
said  Agnes,  endeavoring  to  conceal  her  deep  vexation  in 
affected  irony.  “ God  only  can  tell  in  what  all  these 
oppressive  measures  will  end.” 

“If  you  go  only  as  a curious  spectator  of  the  depredations  c 
of  the  troops,”  continued  Cecil,  “ are  you  not  wrong  to  lend 
them  even  the  sanction  of  your  name  ? ’ ’ 

“ I have  yet  to  learn  that  there  will  be  depredations.” 
“You  forget,  Cecil,”  interrupted  Agnes  Danforth,  scorn- 
fully, “that  Major  Lincoln  did  not  arrive  until  after  the 
renowned  march  from  Roxbury  to  Dorchester  ! Then  the 
troops  gathered  their  laurels  under  the  face  of  the  sun  ; but 
it  is  easy  to  conceive  how  much  more  glorious  their  achieve- 
ments will  become  when  darkness  shall  conceal  their 
blushes  ! ’ ’ 

The  blood  rushed  across  the  fine  features  of  Lionel,  but  he 
laughed  as  he  arose  to  depart,  saying, — 

“ You  compel  me  to  beat  the  retreat,  my  spirited  coz.  If 
I have  my  usual  fortune  in  this  forage,  your  larder,  however, 
shall  be  the  better  for  it.  I kiss  my  hand  to  you,  for  it  would 
be  necessary  to  lay  aside  the  scarlet,  to  dare  to  approach 
with  a more  peaceable  offering.  But  here  I may  make  an 
approach  to  something  like  amity.” 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


103 


He  took  the  hand  of  Cecil,  who  frankly  met  his  offer,  and 
insensibly  suffered  herself  to  be  led  to  the  door  of  the  building 
while  he  continued  speaking. 

“ I would,  Lincoln,  that  you  were  not  to  go,”  she  said, 
when  they  stopped  on  the  threshold  ; ‘ ‘ it  is  not  required  of 
you  as  a soldier  ; and  as  a man,  your  own  feelings  should 
teach  you  to  be  tender  of  your  countrymen.” 

“ It  is  as  a man  that  I go,  Cecil,”  he  answered.  “ I have 
motives  that  you  cannot  suspect.” 

“ And  is  your  absence  to  be  long  ? ” 

“If  not  for  days,  my  object  will  be  unaccomplished; 
but,”  he  added,  pressing  her  hand  gently,  “you  cannot 
doubt  my  willingness  to  return  when  occasion  may  offer. 5 * 
“ Go,  then,”  said  Cecil,  hastily,  and  perhaps  unconsciously 
extricating  herself,  ‘ ‘ go,  if  you  have  secret  reasons  for 
your  conduct ; but  remember  that  the  acts  of  every  officer 
of  your  rank  are  keenly  noted. ’ 5 
“ Do  you  then  distrust  me,  Cecil?  ” 

“No — no — I distrust  no  one,  Major  Lincoln;  go — go — 
and — and — we  shall  see  you,  Lionel,  the  instant  you  return.” 
He  had  not  time  to  reply,  for  she  glided  into  the  building 
so  rapidly  as  to  give  the  young  man  an  opportunity  only  to 
observe,  that,  instead  of  rejoining  her  cousin,  her  light  form 
passed  up  the  great  stairs  with  the  swiftness  and  grace  of  a 
fairy. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

" Hang  out  our  banners  on  the  outward  walls  : 

The  cry  is  still,  They  come.” 

Macbeth. 

LIONEL  had  walked  from  the  dwelling  of  Mrs.  Lech- 
mere  to  the  foot  of  Beacon  Hill,  and  had  even 
toiled  up  some  part  of  the  steep  ascent,  before  he 
recollected  why  he  was  thus  wandering  by  himself 
at  that  unusual  hour.  Hearing,  however,  no  sounds  that 
denoted  an  immediate  movement  of  the  troops,  he  then 
yielded,  unconsciously,  to  the  nature  of  his  sensations,  which 
just  at  that  moment  rendered  his  feelings  jealous  of  com- 
munication with  others,  and  continued  to  ascend  until  he 
gained  the  summit  of  the  eminence.  From  this  elevated 
stand  he  paused  to  contemplate  the  scene  which  lay  in  the 
obscurity  of  night  at  his  feet,  while  his  thoughts  returned 
from  the  flattering  anticipations  in  which  he  had  been  in- 
dulging, to  consider  the  more  pressing  business  of  the  hour. 
There  arose  from  the  town  itself  a distant  buzzing,  like  the 
hum  of  suppressed  agitation,  and  lights  were  seen  to  glide 
along  the  streets,  or  flit  across  the  windows,  in  a manner 
which  denoted  that  a knowledge  of  the  expedition  had  be- 
come general  witMn  its  dwellings.  Lionel  turned  his  head 
towards  the  common,  and  listened  long  and  anxiously,  but 
in  vain,  to  detect  a single  sound  that  could  betray  any  un- 
usual stir  among  the  soldiery.  Towards  the  interior,  the 
darkness  of  night  had  fallen  heavily,  dimming  the  amphi- 
theatre of  hills  that  encircled  the  place,  and  enshrouding 
the  vales  and  lowlands  between  them  and  the  water  with  an 
impenetrable  veil  of  gloom.  There  were  moments,  indeed, 

104 


attend  Olmcoln 


IOS 


when  he  imagined  he  overheard  some  indications  among  the 
people  of  the  opposite  shore,  that  they  were  apprised  of  the 
impending  descent ; but  on  listening  more  attentively,  the 
utmost  of  which  his  ear  could  assure  him  was  the  faint  low- 
ing of  cattle  from  the  meadows,  or  the  plash  of  oars  from  a 
line  of  boats,  which,  by  stretching  far  along  the  shores,  told 
both  the  nature  and  the  extent  of  the  watchfulness  that  was 
deemed  necessary  for  the  occasion. 

While  Lionel  stood  thus,  on  the  margin  of  the  little  plat- 
form of  earth  that  had  been  formed  by  levelling  the  apex  of 
the  natural  cone,  musing  on  the  probable  results  of  the 
measure  his  superiors  had  been  resolving  to  undertake,  a 
dim  light  shed  itself  along  the  grass,  and  glancing  upward, 
danced  upon  the  beacon  with  strong  and  playful  rays. 

‘ 4 Scoundrel  ! ” exclaimed  a man,  springing  from  his  place 
of  concealment,  at  the  foot  of  the  post,  and  encountering 
him  face  to  face,  “ do  you  dare  to  fire  the  beacon  ? ” 

“I  would  answer  b}^  asking  how  you  dare  to  apply  so 
rude  an  epithet  to  me,  did  I not  see  the  cause  of  your  error/ 9 
said  Lionel.  “The  light  is  from  yonder  moon,  which  is 
just  emerging  from  the  ocean.” 

“Ah!  I see  my  error,”  returned  his  rough  assailant. 
“By  heavens,  I would  have  .sworn,  at  first,  ’twas  the 
beacon  ! ” 

“You  must,  then,  believe  in  the  traditional  witchcraft  of 
this  country ; for  nothing  short  of  necromancy  could  have 
enabled  me  to  light  those  combustibles  at  this  distance.” 

“ I don’t  know  ; ’t  is  a strange  people  we  have  got  among 
—they  stole  the  cannon  from  the  gun-house,  here,  a short 
time  since,  when  I would  have  said  the  thing  was  impossible. 
It  was  before  your  arrival,  sir ; for  I now  believe  I address 
myself  to  Major  Lincoln,  of  the  47th.” 

“You  are  nearer  the  truth  this  time  than  in  your  first 
conjecture  as  to  my  character,”  said  Lionel;  “but  have  I 
met  one  of  the  gentlemen  of  our  mess  ? ’ ’ 

The  stranger  now  explained  that  he  was  a subaltern  in  a 
different  regiment,  but  that  he  well  knew  the  person  of  the 
other.  He  added  that  he  had  been  ordered  to  watch  on  the 
hill  to  prevent  any  of  the  inhabitants  lighting  the  beacon, 


io  6 


Xtonel  Xfncoln 


or  making  any  other  signal  which  might  convey  into  the 
country  a knowledge  of  the  contemplated  inroad. 

“This  matter  wears  a more  serious  aspect  than  I had 
supposed/’  returned  Lionel,  when  the  young  man  had 
ended  his  apologies  and  explanation ; ‘ ‘ the  commander- 
in-chief  must  intend  more  than  we  are  aware  of,  by  employ- 
ing officers  in  this  manner  to  do  the  duties  of  privates.” 

“We  poor  subs  know  but  little,  and  care  less  what  he 
means,”  cried  the  ensign  ; “though  I will  acknowledge  that 
I can  see  no  sufficient  reason  why  British  troops  should  put 
on  coats  of  darkness  to  march  against  a parcel  of  guessing, 
canting  countrymen,  who  would  run  at  the  sight  of  their 
uniforms  under  a bright  sun.  Had  I my  will,  the  tar  above 
us,  there,  should  blaze  a mile  high,  to  bring  down  the  heroes 
from  Connecticut  River.  The  dogs  would  cow  before  two 
full  companies  of  grenadiers.  Ha  ! listen,  sir ; there  they 
go,  now ; the  pride  of  our  army  ! I know  them  by  their 
heavy  tread.” 

Lionel  did  listen  attentively,  and  plainly  distinguished 
the  measured  step  of  a body  of  disciplined  men,  moving 
rapidly  across  the  common,  as  if  marching  towards  the 
water-side.  Hastily  bidding  his  companion  good-night, 
he  threw  himself  over  the  brow  of  the  hill,  and  taking  the 
direction  of  the  sounds,  he  arrived  at  the  shore  at  the  same 
instant  with  the  troops.  Two  dark  masses  of  human  bodies 
were  halted  in  order,  and  as  Lionel  skirted  the  columns,  his 
experienced  eye  judged  that  the  force  collected  before  him 
could  be  but  little  short  of  a thousand  men.  A group  of 
officers  was  clustered  on  the  beach,  and  he  approached  it, 
rightly  supposing  that  it  was  gathered  about  the  leader  of 
the  party.  This  officer  proved  to  be  the  lieutenant-colonel 
of  the  ioth,  who  was  in  close  conversation  with  the  old 
major  of  marines  alluded  to  by  the  sentinel  who  stood  before 
the  gates  of  Province  House.  To  the  former  of  these  the 
young  soldier  addressed  himself,  demanding  leave  to  accom- 
pany the  detachment  as  a volunteer.  After  a few  words  of 
explanation  his  request  was  granted,  though  each  forbore  to 
touch  in  the  slightest  manner  on  the  secret  objects  of  the 
expedition, 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


107 


Lionel  now  found  his  groom,  who  had  followed  the  troops 
with  his  master’s  horses,  and,  after  giving  his  orders  to  the 
man,  he  proceeded  in  quest  of  his  friend  Polwarth,  whom 
he  soon  discovered,  posted  in  all  the  stiffness  of  military 
exactness,  at  the  head  of  the  leading  platoon  of  the  column 
of  light  infantry.  As  it  was  apparent,  both  from  the  posi- 
tion they  occupied,  as  well  as  by  the  boats  that  had  been 
collected  at  the  point,  that  the  detachment  was  not  to  leave 
the  peninsula  by  its  ordinary  channel  of  communication 
with  the  country,  there  remained  no  alternative  but  to 
await  patiently  the  order  to  embark.  The  delay  was  but 
short,  and,  as  the  most  perfect  order  wras  observed,  the  troops 
were  soon  seated,  and  the  boats  pulled  heavily  from  the  land 
just  as  the  rays  of  the  moon,  which  had  been  some  time 
playing  among  the  hills  and  gilding  the  spires  of  the  town, 
diffused  themselves  softly  over  the  bay,  and  lighted  the  busy 
scene,  with  an  effect  not  unlike  the  sudden  rising  of  the 
curtain  at  the  opening  of  some  interesting  drama.  Pol- 
warth had  established  himself  by  the  side  of  Lionel,  much 
to  the  ease  of  his  limbs,  and  as  they  moved  slowly  into  the 
light,  all  those  misgivings  which  had  so  naturally  accom- 
panied his  musings  on  the  difficulties  of  a partisan  irruption, 
vanished  before  the  loveliness  of  the  time,  and  possibly 
before  the  quietude  of  the  action. 

“ There  are  moments  when  I could  fancy  the  life  of  a 
sailor,’ ’ he  said,  leaning  indolently  back,  and  playing  with 
one  hand  in  the  water.  “This  pulling  about  in  boats  is 
easy  work,  and  must  be  capital  assistance  for  a heavy  diges- 
tion, inasmuch  as  it  furnishes  air  with  as  little  violent  ex- 
ercise as  may  be.  Your  marine  should  lead  a merry  life 
of  it!” 

“ They  are  said  to  murmur  at  the  clashing  of  their  duties 
with  those  of  the  sea-officers,”  said  Lionel;  “ and  I have 
often  heard  them  complain  of  a want  of  room  to  make  use 
of  their  legs.  ’ ’ 

“ Humph  ! ” ejaculated  Polwarth  ; “ the  leg  is  a part  of 
a man  for  which  I see  less  actual  necessity  than  for  any  other 
portion  of  his  frame.  I often  think  there  has  been  a sad 
mistake  in  the  formation  of  the  animal ; as,  for  instance,  one 


io8 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


can  be  a very  good  waterman,  as  you  see,  without  legs — a 
good  fiddler,  a firstrate  tailor,  a lawyer,  a doctor,  a parson, 
a very  tolerable  cook,  and,  in  short,  anything  but  a dancing- 
master.  I see  no  use  in  a leg,  unless  it  be  to  have  the  gout ; 
at  any  rate,  a leg  of  twelve  inches  is  as  good  as  one  a mile 
long,  and  the  saving  might  be  appropriated  to  the  nobler 
parts  of  the  animal,  such  as  the  brain  and  the  stomach.” 

“You  forget  the  officer  of  light  infantry,”  said  Lionel, 
laughing. 

“You  might  give  him  a couple  of  inches  more  ; though 
as  everything  in  this  wicked  world  is  excellent  only  by 
comparison,  it  would  amount  to  the  same  thing,  and  on  my 
system  a man  would  be  just  as  fit  for  the  light  infantry  with- 
out as  with  legs ; and  he  would  get  rid  of  a good  deal  of 
troublesome  manoeuvring,  especially  of  this  new  exercise. 
It  would  then  become  a delightful  service,  Leo  ; for  it  may 
be  said  to  monopolize  all  the  poetry  of  military  life,  as  you 
may  see.  Neither  the  imagination  nor  the  bod}^  can  require 
more  than  we  enjoy  at  this  moment,  and  of  what  use,  I 
would  ask,  are  our  legs? — if  anything,  they  are  incum- 
brances in  this  boat.  Here  we  have  a soft  moon,  and  softer 
seats — smooth  water  and  a stimulating  air ; on  one  side  a 
fine  country,  which,  though  but  faintly  seen,  is  known  to  be 
fertile  and  rich  to  abundance  ; and  on  the  other  a pictur- 
esque town,  stored  with  the  condiments  of  every  climate : 
even  those  rascally  privates  look  mellowed  by  the  moon- 
beams, with  their  scarlet  coats  and  glittering  arms  ! Did 
you  meet  Miss  Danforth  in  your  visit  to  Tremont  Street, 
Major  Lincoln  ? ” 

‘ ‘ That  pleasure  was  not  denied  me.  ’ ’ 

“Knew  she  of  these  martial  proceedings?  ” 

‘ ‘ There  was  something  exceedingly  belligerent  in  her 
humor.” 

“ Spoke  she  of  the  light  infantry,  or  of  any  who  serve  in 
the  light  corps  ? ’ ’ 

“Your  name  was  certainly  mentioned,”  returned  Lionel, 
a little  dryly ; ‘ 4 she  intimated  that  the  hen-roosts  were  in 
danger. ’ ’ 

‘ ( Ah  ! she  is  a girl  of  a million  ! her  very  acids  are 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


IO9 


sweet ! the  spices  were  not  forgotten  when  the  dough  of 
her  composition  was  mixed ; would  that  she  were  here  ! 
five  minutes  of  moonshine  to  a man  in  love  is  worth  a whole 
summer  of  a broiling  sun;  ’t  would  be  a master-stroke  to 
entice  her  into  one  of  our  picturesque  marches ; your  par- 
tisan is  the  man  to  take  everything  by  surprise — women  and 
fortifications  ! Where  now  are  your  companies  of  the  line  ; 
your  artillery  and  dragoons  ; your  engineers  and  staff?  night- 
capped  and  snoring  to  a man,  while  we  enjoy  here  the  very 
dessert  of  existence  ; I wish  I could  hear  a nightingale.” 
“You  have  a solitary  whippoorwill  whistling  his  notes,  as 
if  in  lamentation  at  our  approach.” 

“Too  dolorous,  and  by  far  too  monotonous  ; ’t  is  like  eat- 
ing pig  for  a month.  But  why  are  our  fifes  asleep  ? ” 

“The  precautions  of  a whole  day  should  hardly  be  de- 
feated by  the  tell-tale  notes  of  our  music,”  said  Lionel  ; 
“your  spirits  get  the  better  of  your  discretion.  I should 
think  the  prospect  of  a fatiguing  march  would  have  lowered 
your  vein.” 

“A  fico  for  fatigue  ! ” exclaimed  Polwarth  ; “we  only  go 
out  to  take  a position  at  the  colleges  to  cover  our  supplies 
— we  are  for  school,  Leo  : only  fancy  the  knapsacks  of  the 
men  to  be  satchels, — humor  my  folly, — and  you  may  be- 
lieve yourself  once  more  a bo}^.” 

The  spirits  of  Polwarth  had  indeed  undergone  a sudden 
change,  when  he  found  the  sad  anticipations  which  crossed 
his  mind  on  first  hearing  of  a night  inroad,  so  agreeably  dis- 
appointed by  the  comfortable  situation  he  occupied  ; and  he 
continued  conversing  in  the  manner  described,  until  the 
boats  reached  an  unfrequented  point  that  projected  a little 
way  into  that  part  of  the  bay  which  washed  the  western 
side  of  the  peninsula  of  Boston.  Here  the  troops  landed, 
and  were  again  formed  with  all  possible  despatch.  The 
company  of  Polwarth  was  posted,  as  before,  at  the  head  of 
the  column  of  light  infantry  ; and  an  officer  of  the  staff  rid- 
ing a short  distance  in  front,  it  was  directed  to  follow  his 
movements.  Lionel  ordered  his  groom  to  take  the  route  of 
the  troops  with  the  horses,  and  placing  himself  once  more  by 
the  side  of  the  captain,  they  proceeded  at  the  appointed  signal. 


no 


Xionel  Xlrtcoln 


“Now  for  the  shades  of  old  Harvard  !”  said  Polwarth, 
pointing  towards  the  humble  buildings  of  the  university, 
‘ ‘ you  shall  feast  this  night  on  reason,  while  I will  make  a 
more  sub — Ha  ! what  can  that  blind  quartermaster  mean 
by  taking  this  direction  ? Does  he  not  see  that  the  mead- 
ows are  half  covered  with  water  ? ’ ’ 

“ Move  on,  move  on  with  the  light  infantry/’  cried  the 
stern  voice  of  the  old  major  of  marines,  who  rode  but  a 
short  distance  in  their  rear.  “Do  you  falter  at  the  sight 
of  water  ? ’ ’ 

“We  are  not  wharf-rats,”  said  Polwarth. 

Lionel  seized  him  by  the  arm,  and  before  the  disconcerted 
captain  had  time  to  recollect  himself,  he  was  borne  through 
a wide  pool  of  stagnant  water,  mid-leg  deep. 

“ Do  not  let  your  romance  cost  your  commission,”  said 
the  major,  as  Polwarth  floundered  out  of  his  difficulties ; 
‘ ‘ here  is  an  incident  at  once  for  your  private  narrative  of 
the  campaign.” 

“Ah!  Leo,”  said  the  captain,  with  a sort  of  comical 
sorrow,  ‘ ‘ I fear  we  are  not  to  court  the  muses  by  this 
hallowed  moon  to-night.” 

“You  can  assure  yourself  of  that,  by  observing  that  we 
leave  the  academical  roofs  on  our  left — our  leaders  take 
the  highway.” 

They  had  by  this  time  extricated  themselves  from  the 
meadows,  and  were  moving  on  a road  which  led  into  the 
interior. 

“You  had  better  order  up  your  groom,  and  mount,  Major 
Lincoln,”  said  Polwarth,  sullenly:  “a  man  need  husband 
his  strength,  I see.” 

“ ’T  would  be  folly  now ; I am  wet,  and  must  walk  for 
safety.  ’ ’ 

With  the  departure  of  Polwarth’ s spirits  the  conversa- 
tion began  to  flag,  and  the  gentlemen  continued  their  march 
with  only  such  occasional  communications  as  arose  from  the 
passing  incidents  of  their  situation.  It  very  soon  became 
apparent,  both  by  the  direction  given  to  the  columns,  as 
well  as  by  the  hurried  steps  of  their  guide,  that  the  march 
was  to  be  forced,  as  well  as  of  some  length.  But  as  the 


Xionel  Xincoln 


III 


air  was  getting  cool,  even  Polwarth  was  not  reluctant  to 
warm  his  chilled  blood  by  more  than  ordinary  exertion. 
The  columns  opened  for  the  sake  of  ease,  and  each  man 
was  permitted  to  consult  his  own  convenience,  provided  he 
preserved  his  appointed  situation,  and  kept  even  pace  with 
his  comrades.  In  this  manner  the  detachment  advanced 
swiftly,  a general  silence  pervading  the  whole,  as  the  spirits 
of  the  men  settled  into  that  deep  sobriety  which  denotes 
much  earnestness  of  purpose.  At  first,  the  whole  country 
appeared  buried  in  a general  sleep  ; but  as  they  proceeded, 
the  barking  of  the  dogs,  and  the  tread  of  the  soldiery,  drew 
the  inhabitants  of  the  farm-houses  to  their  windows,  who 
gazed  in  mute  wonder  at  the  passing  spectacle,  across  which 
the  mellow  light  of  the  moon  cast  a glow  of  brilliancy. 
Tionel  had  turned  his  head  from  studying  the  surprise  de- 
picted in  the  faces  of  the  members  of  one  of  these  disturbed 
families,  when  the  tones  of  a distant  church-bell  came 
sweeping  down  the  valley  in  which  they  marched,  ringing 
peal  on  peal,  in  the  quick,  spirit-stirring  sounds  of  an  alarm. 
The  men  raised  their  heads  in  wondering  attention,  as  they 
advanced ; but  it  was  not  long  before  the  reports  of  fire- 
arms were  heard  echoing  among  the  hills,  and  bell  began  to 
answer  bell  in  every  direction,  until  the  sounds  blended 
with  the  murmurs  of  the  night  air,  or  were  lost  in  distance. 
The  whole  country  was  now  filled  with  every  organ  of 
sound  that  the  means  of  the  people  furnished,  or  their  in- 
genuity could  devise,  to  call  the  population  to  arms.  Fires 
blazed  along  the  heights,  the  bellowing  of  the  conchs  and 
horns  mingled  with  the  rattling  of  the  muskets  and  the 
varied  tones  of  the  bells,  while  the  swift  clattering  of  horses* 
hoofs  began  to  be  heard,  as  if  their  riders  were  dashing 
furiously  along  the  flanks  of  the  party. 

“Push  on,  gentlemen,  push  on!”  shouted  the  old  vet- 
eran of  marines,  amid  the  din.  “ The  Yankees  have  awoke, 
and  are  stirring,— we  have  yet  a long  road  to  journey. 
Push  on,  light  infantry,  the  grenadiers  are  on  your  heels  ! ” 

The  advance  quickened  their  steps,  and  the  whole  body 
pushed  for  their  unknown  object  with  as  much  rapidity  as 
the  steadiness  of  military  array  would  admit.  In  this  man- 


l4ortel  Xtitcoln 


1 1 2 


ner  the  detachment  continued  to  proceed  for  some  hourg, 
without  halting,  and  Lionel  imagined  that  they  had  ad- 
vanced several  leagues  into  the  country.  The  sounds  of 
the  alarm  had  now  passed  away,  having  swept  far  inland, 
until  the  faintest  evidence  of  its  existence  was  lost  to  the 
ear,  though  the  noise  of  horsemen,  riding  furiously  along 
the  by-ways,  yet  denoted  that  men  were  still  hurrying  past 
them,  to  the  scene  of  the  expected  strife.  As  the  deceitful 
light  of  the  moon  was  blending  with  the  truer  colors  of  the 
day,  the  welcome  sound  of  “ Halt  ! ” was  passed  from  the 
rear  up  to  the  head  of  the  column  of  light  infantry. 

“Halt!”  repeated  Polwarth,  with  instinctive  readiness, 
and  with  a voice  that  sent  the  order  through  the  whole 
length  of  their  extended  line  ; ‘ ‘ halt,  and  let  the  rear  close  ; 
if  my  judgment  in  walking  be  worth  so  much  as  an  an- 
chovy, they  are  some  miles  behind  us,  by  this  time.  A 
man  needs  to  have  crossed  his  race  with  the  blood  of  Fly- 
ing Childers  for  this  sort  of  work  ! The  next  command 
should  be  to  break  our  fasts.  Tom,  you  brought  the  trifles 
I sent  you  from  Major  Lincoln’s  quarters  ? ” 

“Yes,  sir,”  returned  his  man  ; “ they  are  on  the  major's 
horses,  in  the  rear,  as—'  ’ 

“ The  major’s  horses  in  the  rear,  you  ass,  when  food  is  in 
such  request  in  the  front ! I wonder,  L,eo,  if  a mouthful 
couldn’t  be  picked  up  in  yon  farm-house?  ” 

“ Pick  yourself  off  that  stone,  and  make  the  men  dress  ; here 
is  Pitcairn  closing  to  the  front  with  the  whole  battalion.” 

Lionel  had  hardly  spoken  before  an  order  was  passed  to 
the  light  infantry  to  look  to  their  arms,  and  for  the  grena- 
diers to  prime  and  load.  The  presence  of  the  veteran  who 
rode  in  front  of  the  column,  and  the  hurry  of  the  moment, 
suppressed  the  complaints  of  Polwarth,  who  was  in  truth  an 
excellent  officer,  as  it  respected  what  he  himself  termed  the 
“quiescent  details  of  service.”  Three  or  four  companies  of 
the  light  corps  were  detached  from  the  main  body,  and 
formed  in  the  open  marching  order  of  their  exercise,  when 
the  old  marine,  placing  himself  at  their  head,  gave  forth  the 
order  to  advance  again  at  a quick  step.  The  road  now  led 
into  a vale,  and  at  some  distance  a small  hamlet  of  houses 


Lionel  ^Lincoln 


was  dimly  seen  through  the  morning  haze,  clustered  around 
one  of  the  humble,  but  decent  temples,  so  common  in  Mas- 
sachusetts. The  halt,  and  the  brief  preparations  that  suc- 
ceeded, had  excited  a powerful  interest  in  the  whole  of  the 
detachment,  who  pushed  earnestly  forward,  keeping  on  the 
heels  of  the  charger  of  their  veteran  leader,  as  he  passed 
over  the  ground  at  a small  trot.  The  air  partook  of  the 
scent  of  morning,  and  the  eye  was  enabled  to  dwell  dis- 
tinctly on  surrounding  objects,  quickening,  aided  by  the 
excitement  of  the  action,  the  blood  of  the  men  who  had 
been  toiling  throughout  the  night  in  uncertain  obscurity 
along  an  unknown,  and,  apparently,  interminable  road. 
Their  object  now  seemed  before  them  and  attainable,  and 
they  pressed  forward  to  achieve  it  in  animated  but  silent 
earnestness.  The  plain  architecture  of  the  church  and  of 
its  humble  companions  had  just  become  distinct,  when  three 
or  four  armed  horsemen  were  seen  attempting  to  anticipate 
their  arrival,  by  crossing  the  head  of  the  column  from  a 
by-path. 

“ Come  in,”  cried  an  officer  of  the  staff  in  front,  4 ‘come 
in,  or  quit  the  place  ! ” 

The  men  turned,  and  rode  briskly  off,  one  of  their  party 
flashing  his  piece  in  a vain  attempt  to  give  the  alarm.  A 
low  mandate  was  now  passed  through  the  ranks  to  push  on, 
and  in  a few  moments  they  entered  on  a full  view  of  the 
hamlet,  the  church,  and  the  little  green  on  which  it  stood. 
The  forms  of  men  were  seen  moving  swiftly  across  the  lat- 
ter, as  a roll  of  a drum  broke  from  the  spot ; and  there 
were  glimpses  of  a small  body  of  countrymen,  drawn  up  in 
the  affectation  of  military  parade. 

“Push  on,  light  infantry  !”  cried  their  leader,  spurring 
his  horse,  and  advancing  with  the  staff  at  so  brisk  a trot  as 
to  disappear  round  an  angle  of  the  church. 

Lionel  pressed  forward  with  a beating  heart,  for  a crowd 
of  horrors  rushed  across  his  imagination  at  the  moment, 
when  the  stern  voice  of  the  major  of  marines  was  again 
heard,  shouting, — 

“ Disperse,  ye  rebels,  disperse  ! Throw  down  your  arms, 

and  disperse  ! ” 

8 


c?ur 


reports  of  pistols,  and  the  fatal  mandate  of  ‘ ‘ Fire  ! ’ ’ when 
a loud  shout  arose  from  the  whole  body  of  the  soldiery,  who 
rushed  upon  the  open  green,  and  threw  in  a close  discharge 
on  all  before  them. 

“Great  God!”  exclaimed  Lionel,  “what  is  it  ye  do? 
Ye  fire  at  unoffending  men  ! Is  there  no  law  but  force  ? 
Beat  up  their  pieces,  Polwarth  ; stop  their  fire.” 

“Halt  ! ” cried  Polwarth,  brandishing  his  sword  fiercely 
among  his  men.  “ Come  to  an  order,  or  I ’ll  fell  ye  to  the 
earth  ! ’ ’ 

But  the  excitement  which  had  been  gathering  to  a head 
for  so  many  hours,  and  the  animosity  which  had  so  long 
been  growing  between  the  troops  and  the  people,  were  not 
to  be  repressed  at  a word.  It  was  only  when  Pitcairn  him- 
self rode  in  among  the  soldiers,  and,  aided  by  his  officers, 
beat  down  their  arms,  that  the  uproar  was  gradually  quelled, 
and  something  like  order  was  again  restored.  Before  this 
was  effected,  however,  a few  scattering  shot  were  thrown 
back  from  their  flying  adversaries,  though  without  material 
injury  to  the  British. 

When  the  firing  had  ceased,  officers  and  men  stood  gazing 
at  each  other  for  a few  moments,  as  if  even  they  could  fore- 
see some  of  the  mighty  events  which  were  to  follow  the 
deeds  of  that  hour.  The  smoke  slowly  arose,  like  a lifted 
veil,  from  the  green,  and,  mingling  with  the  fogs  of  morning, 
drove  heavily  across  the  country,  as  if  to  communicate  the 
fatal  intelligence  that  the  final  appeal  to  arms  had  been 
made.  Every  eye  was  bent  inquiringly  on  the  fatal  green, 
and  Lionel  beheld,  with  a feeling  allied  to  anguish,  a few 
men  at  a distance,  writhing  and  struggling  in  their  wounds, 
while  some  five  or  six  bodies  lay  stretched  upon  the  grass  in 
the  appalling  quiet  of  death.  Sickening  at  the  sight,  he 
turned,  and  walked  away  by  himself,  while  the  remainder  of 
the  troops,  alarmed  by  the  reports  of  the  arms,  were  eagerly 
pressing  up  from  the  rear  to  join  their  comrades.  Unwit- 
tingly he  approached  the  church,  nor  did  he  awake  from  the 
deep  abstraction  into  which  he  had  fallen,  until  he  was 
aroused  by  the  extraordinary  spectacle  of  Job  Pray,  issuing 


Xtonel  Lincoln 


”5 


from  the  edifice  with  an  air  in  which  menace  was  singularly 
blended  with  resentment  and  fear.  The  changeling  pointed 
earnestly  to  the  body  of  a man,  who,  having  been  wounded, 
had  crept  for  refuge  near  to  the  door  of  the  temple,  in  which 
he  had  so  often  worshipped  that  Being  to  whom  he  had  been 
thus  hurriedly  sent  to  render  his  last  and  great  account,  and 
said  solemnly, — 

“You  have  killed  one  of  God’s  creatures;  and  he’ll 
remember  it ! ” 

“ I would  it  were  one  only,”  said  Lionel  ; “ but  they  are 
many,  and  none  can  tell  where  the  carnage  is  to  cease.” 

“Do  you  think,”  said  Job,  looking  furtively  around  to 
assure  himself  that  no  other  overheard  him,  “ that  the  king 
can  kill  men  in  the  Bay  Colony  as  he  can  in  London  ? 
They  ’ll  take  this  up  in  old  Funnel,  and  ’twill  ring  again, 
from  the  North  End  to  the  Neck.” 

“ What  can  they  do,  boy,  after  all?  ” said  Lionel,  forget- 
ting at  the  moment  that  he  whom  he  addressed  had  been 
denied  the  reason  of  his  kind  ; ‘ ‘ the  power  of  Britain  is 
too  mighty  for  these  scattered  and  unprepared  colonies  to 
cope  with,  and  prudence  would  tell  the  people  to  desist 
from  resistance  while  yet  they  may.” 

‘ ‘ Does  the  king  believe  there  is  more  prudence  in  Lon- 
don than  there  is  in  Boston?”  returned  the  simpleton; 
“he  needn’t  think,  because  the  people  were  quiet  at  the 
massacre,  there  ’ll  be  no  stir  about  this.  You  have  killed 
one  of  God’s  creatures,”  added  the  lad,  “ and  he’ll  remem- 
ber it  ! ” 

“How  came  you  here,  sirrah?”  demanded  Lionel,  sud- 
denly recollecting  himself ; ‘ 4 did  you  not  tell  me  that  you 
were  going  out  to  fish  for  your  mother  ? ” 

“ And  if  I did,”  returned  the  other  sullenly,  “ ain’t  there 
fish  in  the  ponds  as  well  as  in  the  bay,  and  can’t  Nab  have 
a fresh  taste?  Job  don’t  know  there  is  any  act  of  Parlia- 
ment ag’in  taking  brook  trout.” 

“ Fellow,  you  are  attempting  to  deceive  me  ! Some  one 
is  practising  on  your  ignorance,  and  knowing  you  to  be  a 
fool,  is  employing  you  on  errands  that  may  one  day  cost 
your  life.” 


ii  6 


Xionel  Xirtcoln 


“The  king  can’t  send  Job  on  arr’nds,”  said  the  lad, 
proudly  ; “ for  there  is  no  law  for  it,  and  Job  won’t  go.” 

“ Your  knowledge  will  undo  you,  simpleton.  Who  should 
teach  you  these  niceties  of  the  law  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Why,  do  you  think  the  Boston  people  so  dumb  as  not 
to  know  the  law  ? ” asked  Job,  with  unfeigned  astonishment, 
“ and  Ralph,  too — he  knows  as  much  law  as  the  king  ; he 
told  me  it  was  ag’in  all  law  to  shoot  at  the  minute-men,  un- 
less they  fired  first,  because  the  colony  has  a right  to  train 
whenever  it  pleases.” 

“Ralph!”  said  Lionel,  eagerly;  “can  Ralph  be  with 
you,  then?  ’tis  impossible;  I left  him  ill,  and  at  home — 
neither  would  he  mingle  in  such  a business  as  this,  at  his 
years.” 

‘ ‘ I expect  Ralph  has  seen  bigger  armies  than  the  light 
infantry,  and  grannies,  and  all  the  soldiers  left  in  town  put 
together,”  said  Job,  evasively. 

Lionel  was  far  too  generous  to  practise  on  the  simplicity 
of  his  companion,  with  a view  to  extract  any  secret  which 
might  endanger  his  liberty,  but  he  felt  a deep  concern  in 
the  welfare  of  a young  man  who  had  been  thrown  in  his 
way  in  the  manner  already  related.  He  therefore  pursued 
the  subject,  with  the  double  design  to  advise  Job  against 
any  dangerous  connections,  and  to  relieve  his  own  anxiety 
on  the  subject  of  the  aged  stranger.  But  to  all  his 
interrogatories  the  lad  answered  guardedly,  and  with  a 
discretion  which  denoted  that  he  possessed  no  small  share 
of  cunning,  though  a higher  order  of  intellect  had  been 
denied  him. 

“ I repeat  to  you,”  said  Lionel,  losing  his  patience,  “ that 
it  is  important  for  me  to  meet  the  man  whom  you  call  Ralph 
in  the  country,  and  I wish  to  know  if  he  is  to  be  seen  near 
here.” 

“ Ralph  scorns  a lie,”  returned  Job  ; “go  where  he  prom- 
ised to  meet  you,  and  see  if  he  don’t  come.” 

‘ 4 But  no  place  was  named  ; and  this  unhappy  event  may 
embarrass  him,  or  frighten  him — ” 

“Frighten  him!”  repeated  Job,  shaking  his  head  with 
solemn  earnestness  ; “ you  can’t  frighten  Ralph  ! ” 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


117 


“ His  daring  may  prove  his  misfortune.  Boy,  I ask  you 
for  the  last  time  whether  the  old  man — ’ ’ 

Perceiving  Job  to  shrink  back  timidly,  and  lower  in  his 
looks,  Lionel  paused,  and  casting  a glance  behind  him,  be- 
held the  captain  of  grenadiers  standing  with  folded  arms, 
silently  contemplating  the  body  of  the  American. 

“Will  you  have  the  goodness  to  explain  to  me,  Major 
Lincoln,’ ’ said  the  captain,  when  he  perceived  himself  ob- 
served, “ why  this  man  lies  here  dead  ? ” 

“You  see  the  wound  in  his  breast  ? ” 

“It  is  a palpable  and  baistly  truth,  that  he  has  been 
shot — but  why,  or  with  what  design  ? ” 

‘ ‘ I must  leave  that  question  to  be  answered  by  our  supe- 
riors, Captain  M’Fuse,”  returned  Lionel.  “ It  is,  however, 
rumored  that  the  expedition  is  out  to  seize  certain  maga- 
zines of  provisions  and  arms  which  the  colonists  have  been 
collecting,  it  is  feared,  with  hostile  intentions.” 

“ I had  my  own  sagacious  thoughts  that  we  were  bent  on 
some  such  glorious  errand,”  said  M’Fuse,  with  strong  con- 
tempt expressed  in  his  hard  features.  “Tell  me,  Major 
Lincoln — you  are  certainly  but  a young  soldier,  though 
being  of  the  staff,  you  should  know — does  Gage  think  we 
can  have  a war  with  the  arms  and  ammunition  all  on  one 
side?  We  have  had  a long  p’ace,  Major  Lincoln,  and 
now,  when  there  is  a small  prospect  of  some  of  the  pecul- 
iarities of  our  profession  arising,  we  are  commanded  to  do 
the  very  thing  which  is  most  likely  to  def’ate  the  object  of 
war.” 

“ I do  not  know  that  I rightly  understand  you,  sir,”  said 
Lionel  ; ‘ ‘ there  can  be  but  little  glory  gained  by  such  troops 
as  we  possess,  in  a contest  with  the  unarmed  and  undisci- 
plined inhabitants  of  any  country.” 

“ Exactly  my  maining,  sir;  it  is  quite  obvious  that  we 
understand  each  other  thoroughly,  without  a word  of  cir- 
cumlocution. The  lads  are  doing  very  well  at  present,  and 
if  left  to  themselves  a few  months  longer,  it  may  become  a 
creditable  affair.  You  know  as  well  as  I do,  Major  Lin- 
coln, that  time  is  necessary  to  make  a soldier,  and  if  they 
are  hurried  into  the  business,  you  might  as  well  be  chasing 


n8 


Xionei  Xtncoin 


a mob  up  Ludgate  Hill,  for  the  honor  you  will  gain.  A dis- 
crate  officer  would  nurse  this  little  matter,  instead  of  resort- 
ing to  such  precipitation.  To  my  id’aas,  sir,  the  man  before 
us  has  been  butchered,  and  not  slain  in  honorable  battle  ! ’ * 

4 4 There  is  much  reason  to  fear  that  others  may  use  the 
same  term  in  speaking  of  the  affair/ ’ returned  Lionel ; “ God 
knows  how  much  cause  we  may  have  to  lament  the  death 
of  the  poor  man.” 

4 ‘ On  that  topic,  the  man  may  be  said  to  have  gone 
through  a business  that  was  to  be  done,  and  is  not  to  be 
done  over  again,”  said  the  captain,  very  coolly,  44  and  there- 
fore his  death  can  be  no  very  great  calamity  to  himself, 
whatever  it  may  be  to  us.  If  these  minute-men — and,  as 
they  stand  but  a minute,  they  ’arn  their  name  like  worthy 
fellows — if  these  minute-men,  sir,  stood  in  your  way,  you 
should  have  whipped  them  from  the  green  with  your  ram- 
rods.” 

4 4 Here  is  one  who  may  tell  you  that  they  are  not  to  be 
treated  like  children  either,”  said  Lionel,  turning  to  the 
place  which  had  been  so  recently  occupied  by  Job  Pray,  but 
which,  to  his  surprise,  he  now  found  vacant.  While  he  was 
yet  looking  around  him,  wondering  whither  the  lad  could  so 
suddenly  have  withdrawn,  the  drums  beat  the  signal  to 
form,  and  a general  bustle  among  the  soldiery  showed  them 
to  be  on  the  eve  of  further  movements.  The  two  gentlemen 
instantly  rejoined  their  companions,  walking  thoughtfully 
towards  the  troops,  though  influenced  by  such  totally  differ- 
ent views  of  the  recent  transactions. 

During  the  short  halt  of  the  advance,  the  whole  detach- 
ment was  again  united,  and  a hasty  meal  had  been  taken. 
The  astonishment  which  succeeded  the  rencontre  had  given 
place,  among  the  officers,  to  a military  pride,  capable  of 
sustaining  them  in  much  more  arduous  circumstances. 
Even  the  ardent  looks  of  professional  excitement  were  to 
be  seen  in  most  of  their  countenances,  as  with  glittering 
arms,  waving  banners,  and  timing  their  march  to  the  enliv- 
ening music  of  their  band,  they  wheeled  from  the  fatal  spot* 
and  advanced  again,  with  proud  and  measured  steps,  along 
the  highway.  If  such  was  the  result  of  the  first  encounter 


Xionel  Xincoln 


119 


on  the  lofty  and  tempered  spirits  of  the  gentlemen  of  the 
detachment,  its  effect  on  the  common  hirelings  in  the  ranks 
was  still  more  palpable  and  revolting.  Their  coarse  jests, 
and  taunting  looks,  as  they  moved  by  the  despised  victims 
of  their  disciplined  skill,  together  with  the  fierce  and  boast- 
ful expression  of  brutal  triumph,  which  so  many  among 
them  betrayed,  exhibited  the  infallible  evidence,  that,  having 
tasted  of  blood,  they  were  now  ready,  like  tigers,  to  feed  on 
it  till  they  glutted. 


CHAPTER  X. 

“ There  was  mounting  ’rnong  Graemes  of  the  Netherby  clan  ; 
Posters,  Fenwicks,  and  Musgraves,  they  rode  and  they  ran  ; 
There  was  racing,  and  chasing,  on  Cannobie  Lea.” 

Marmion , 

THE  pomp  of  military  parade,  with  which  the  troops 
marched  from  the  village  of  Lexington,  as  the 
little  hamlet  was  called,  where  the  foregoing 
events  occurred,  soon  settled  again  into  the  sober 
and  business-like  air  of  men  earnestly  bent  on  the  achieve- 
ment of  their  object.  It  was  no  longer  a secret  that  they 
were  to  proceed  two  leagues  farther  into  the  interior,  to 
destroy  the  stores  already  mentioned,  and  which  were  now 
known  to  be  collected  at  Concord,  the  town  where  the  Con- 
gress of  Provincial  Delegates,  who  were  substituted  by  the 
colonists  for  the  ancient  legislatures  of  the  province,  held 
their  meetings.  As  the  march  could  not  now  be  concealed, 
it  became  necessa^  to  resort  to  expedition,  in  order  to  insure 
its  successful  termination.  The  veteran  officer  of  marines, 
so  often  mentioned,  resumed  his  post  in  front,  and  at  the 
head  of  the  same  companies  of  the  light  corps,  which  he  had 
before  led,  pushed  in  advance  of  the  heavier  column  of  the 
grenadiers.  Polwarth,  by  this  arrangement,  perceived  him- 
self again  included  among  those  on  whose  swiftness  of  foot 
so  much  depended.  When  Lionel  rejoined  his  friend,  he 
found  him  at  the  head  of  his  men,  marching  with  so  grave 
an  air,  as  at  once  induced  the  major  to  give  him  credit  for 
regrets  much  more  commendable  than  such  as  were  con- 
nected with  his  physical  distress.  The  files  were  once  more 
opened  for  room,  as  well  as  for  air,  which  was  becoming 

{20 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


1 2 I 


necessary,  as  a hot  sun  began  to  dissipate  the  mists  of  the 
morning,  and  shed  that  enervating  influence  on  the  men  so 
peculiar  to  the  first  warmth  of  an  American  spring. 

“This  has  been  a hasty  business  altogether,  Major  Lin- 
coln,” said  Polwarth,  as  Lincoln  took  his  wonted  station  at 
the  side  of  the  other,  and  dropped  mechanically  into  the 
regular  step  of  the  party ; “I  know  not  that  it  is  quite  as 
lawful  to  knock  a man  in  the  head  as  a bullock.” 

“ You  then  agree  with  me  in  thinking  our  attack  hasty,  if 
not  cruel  ? ’ ’ 

“Hasty  ! most  unequivocally.  Haste  may  be  called  the 
distinctive  property  of  the  expedition  ; and  whatever  de- 
stroys the  appetite  of  an  honest  man,  may  be  set  down  as 
cruel.  I have  not  been  able  to  swallow  a mouthful  of  break- 
fast, Leo.  A man  must  have  the  cravings  of  a hyena,  and 
the  stomach  of  an  ostrich,  to  eat  and  digest  with  such  work 
as  this  of  ours  before  his  eyes.  ’ ’ 

“And  yet  the  men  regard  their  acts  with  triumph  ! ” 

“ The  dogs  are  drilled  into  it.  But  you  saw  how  sober  the 
provincials  looked  in  the  matter  : we  must  endeavor  to  soothe 
their  feelings  in  the  best  manner  we  can.” 

“ Will  they  not  despise  our  consolation  and  apologies,  and 
look  rather  to  themselves  for  redress  and  vengeance  ? ’ ’ 
Polwarth  smiled  contemptuously,  and  there  was  an  air  of 
pride  about  him  that  gave  an  appearance  of  elasticity  even 
to  his  heavy  tread,  as  he  answered, — 

“The  thing  is  a bad  thing,  Major  Lincoln,  and,  if  you 
will,  a wicked  thing  ; but  take  the  assurance  of  a man  who 
knows  the  country  well,  there  will  be  no  attempts  at  ven- 
geance ; and  as  for  redress,  in  a military  way,  the  thing  is 
impossible.” 

“You  speak  with  a confidence,  sir,  that  should  find  its 
warranty  in  an  intimate  acquaintance  with  the  weakness  of 
the  people.” 

“ I have  dwelt  two  years,  Major  Lincoln,  in  the  very  heart 
of  the  country,  ”,  said  Polwarth,  without  turning  his  eyes 
from  the  steady  gaze  he  maintained  on  the  long  road  which 
lay  before  him,  “even  three  hundred  miles  beyond  the  un- 
inhabited districts  and  I should  know  the  character  of  the 


122 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


nation,  as  well  as  its  resources.  In  respect  to  the  latter,  there 
is  no  esculent  thing  within  its  borders,  from  a humming-bird  to 
a buffalo,  or  from  an  artichoke  to  a watermelon,  that  I have 
not,  on  some  occasion  or  other,  had  tossed  up,  in  a certain 
way — therefore,  I can  speak  with  confidence,  and  do  not 
hesitate  to  say,  that  the  colonists  will  never  fight ; nor,  if 
they  had  the  disposition,  do  they  possess  the  means  to  main- 
tain a war.” 

“ Perhaps,  sir,”  returned  Lionel,  sharply,  “ you  have  con- 
sulted the  animals  of  the  country  too  closely  to  be  acquainted 
with  its  spirits  ? ’ 5 

‘ ‘ The  relation  between  them  is  intimate  ; tell  me  what 
food  a man  diets  on,  and  I will  furnish  you  with  his  charac- 
ter. ’T  is  morally  impossible  that  a people  who  eat  their 
pudding  before  the  meats,  after  the  fashion  of  these  colonists, 
can  ever  make  good  soldiers,  because  the  appetite  is  ap- 
peased before  the  introduction  of  the  succulent  nutriment  of 
the  flesh,  into — ” 

“ Enough  ! spare  me  the  remainder,”  interrupted  Lionel ; 
“ too  much  has  been  said  already  to  prove  the  inferiority  of 
the  American  to  the  European  animal,  and  your  reasoning 
is  conclusive.  ’ 5 

“ Parliament  must  do  something  for  the  families  of  the 
sufferers.” 

“Parliament!”  echoed  Lionel,  with  bitter  emphasis; 

‘ ‘ yes,  we  shall  be  called  on  to  pass  resolutions  to  commend 
the  decision  of  the  general,  and  the  courage  of  the  troops ; 
and  then,  after  we  have  added  every  possible  insult  to  the 
injury,  under  the  conviction  of  our  imaginary  supremacy,  we 
may  hear  of  some  paltry  sum  to  the  widows  and  orphans  cited 
as  an  evidence  of  the  unbounded  generosity  of  the  nation  ! ’ ’ 

“ The  feeding  of  six  or  seven  broods  of  young  Yankees 
is  no  such  trifle,  Major  Lincoln,”  returned  Polwarth  ; “ and 
there  I trust  the  unhappy  affair  will  end.  We  are  now 
marching  on  Concord,  a place  with  a most  auspicious  name, 
where  we  shall  find  repose  under  its  shadows,  as  well  as  the 
food  of  his  home-made  parliament,  which  they  have  gotten 
together.  These  considerations  alone  support  me  under  the 
fatigue  of  this  direful  trot  with  which  old  Pitcairn  goes  over 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


12  3 


the  ground— does  the  man  think  he  is  hunting  with  a pack 
of  beagles  at  his  heels  ? ’ ’ 

The  opinion  expressed  by  his  companion,  concerning  the 
martial  propensities  of  the  Americans,  was  one  too  common 
among  the  troops  to  excite  any  surprise  in  Lionel  ; but  dis- 
gusted with  the  illiberality  of  the  sentiment,  and  secretly 
offended  at  the  supercilious  manner  with  which  the  other 
expressed  these  injurious  opinions  of  his  countrymen,  he 
continued  his  route  in  silence,  while  Polwarth  speedily  lost 
his  loquacious  propensity  in  a sense  of  the  fatigue  that  as- 
sailed every  muscle  and  joint  in  his  body. 

That  severe  training  of  the  corps,  concerning  which  the 
captain  vented  such  frequent  complaints,  now  stood  the  ad- 
vance in  good  service.  It  was  apparent  that  the  whole 
country  was  in  a state  of  high  alarm,  and  small  bodies  of 
armed  men  were  occasionally  seen  on  the  heights  that  flanked 
their  route,  though  no  attempts  were  made  to  revenge  the 
deaths  of  those  who  fell  at  Lexington.  The  march  of  the 
troops  was  accelerated  rather  with  a belief  that  the  colonists 
might  remove,  or  otherwise  secrete  the  stores,  than  from  any 
apprehension  that  they  would  dare  to  oppose  the  progress  of 
the  chosen  troops  of  the  army.  The  slight  resistance  of  the 
Americans  in  the  rencontre  of  that  morning,  was  already  a 
jest  among  the  soldiers,  who  sneeringly  remarked,  that  the 
term  of  ‘ ‘ minute-men  ’ ’ was  deserved^  applied  to  warriors 
who  had  proved  themselves  so  dexterous  at  flight.  In  short, 
every  opprobrious  and  disrespectful  epithet  that  contempt 
and  ignorance  could  invent,  was  freely  lavished  on  the  for- 
bearing mildness  of  the  suffering  colonists.  In  this  temper 
the  troops  reached  a point  whence  the  modest  spire  and  roofs 
of  Concord  became  visible.  A small  body  of  colonists  re- 
tired through  the  place  as  the  English  advanced,  and  the 
detachment  entered  the  town  without  the  least  resistance, 
and  with  the  appearance  of  conquerors.  Lionel  was  not  long 
in  discovering,  from  such  of  the  inhabitants  as  remained, 
that,  notwithstanding  their  approach  had  been  known  for 
some  time,  the  events  of  that  morning  were  yet  a secret  from 
the  people  of  the  village.  Detachments  from  the  light  corps 
were  immediately  sent  in  various  directions  ; some  to  search 


124 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


for  the  ammunition  and  provisions,  and  some  to  guard  the 
approaches  to  the  place.  One,  in  particular,  followed  the 
retreating  footsteps  of  the  Americans,  and  took  post  at  a 
bridge,  at  some  little  distance,  which  cut  off  the  communi- 
cation with  the  country  to  the  northward. 

In  the  meantime  the  work  of  destruction  was  commenced 
in  the  town,  chiefly  under  the  superintendence  of  the  veteran 
officer  of  the  marines.  The  few  male  inhabitants  who 
remained  in  their  dwellings  were  of  necessity  peaceable, 
though  Lionel  could  read,  in  their  flushed  cheeks  and  gleam- 
ing eyes,  the  secret  indignation  of  men  who,  accustomed  to 
the  protection  of  the  law,  now  found  themselves  subjected 
to  the  insults  and  wanton  abuses  of  a military  inroad. 
Every  door  was  flung  open,  and  no  place  was  held  sacred 
from  the  rude  scrutiny  of  the  licentious  soldiery.  Taunts 
and  execrations  soon  mingled  with  the  seeming  moderation 
with  which  the  search  had  commenced,  and  loud  exultation 
was  betrayed,  even  among  the  officers,  as  the  scanty  pro- 
visions of  the  colonists  were  gradually  brought  to  light.  It 
was  not  a moment  to  respect  private  rights,  and  the  freedom 
and  ribaldry  of  the  men  were  on  the  point  of  becoming 
something  more  serious,  when  the  report  of  fire-arms  was 
heard  suddenly  to  issue  from  the  post  held  by  the  light 
infantry,  at  the  bridge.  A few  scattering  shot  were  suc- 
ceeded by  a volley,  which  was  answered  by  another  with 
the  quickness  of  lightning,  and  then  the  air  became  filled 
with  the  incessant  rattling  of  a sharp  conflict.  Every  arm 
was  suspended,  and  each  tongue  became  mute  with  astonish- 
ment, and  the  men  abandoned  their  occupations,  as  these 
unexpected  sounds  of  war  broke  on  their  ears.  The  chiefs 
of  the  party  were  seen  in  consultation,  and  horsemen  rode 
furiously  into  the  place,  to  communicate  the  nature  of  this 
new  conflict.  The  rank  of  Major  Lincoln  soon  obtained 
for  him  a knowledge  that  it  was  thought  impolitic  to  com- 
municate to  the  whole  detachment.  Notwithstanding  it  was 
apparent  that  they  who  brought  the  intelligence  were  anx- 
ious to  give  it  the  most  favorable  aspect,  he  soon  discovered 
that  the  same  body  of  Americans,  which  had  retired  at  their 
approach,  having  attempted  to  return  to  their  homes  in  the 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


I2S 

town,  had  been  fired  on  at  the  bridge,  and  in  the  skirmish 
which  succeeded,  the  troops  had  been  compelled  to  give  way 
with  loss.  The  effect  of  this  prompt  and  spirited  conduct 
on  the  part  of  the  provincials  produced  a sudden  alteration, 
not  only  in  the  aspect,  but  also  in  the  proceedings  of  the 
troops.  The  detachments  were  recalled,  and  the  drums 
beat  to  arms ; and,  for  the  first  time,  both  officers  and  men 
seemed  to  recollect  that  they  had  six  leagues  to  march 
through  a country  that  hardly  contained  a friend.  Still,  few 
or  no  enemies  were  visible,  with  the  exception  of  those  men 
of  Concord,  who  had  already  drawn  blood  freely  from  the 
invaders  of  their  domestic  sanctuaries.  The  dead,  and  all 
the  common  wounded,  were  left  where  they  had  fallen  ; and 
it  was  thought  an  unfavorable  omen  among  the  observant 
of  the  detachment,  that  a wounded  young  subaltern,  of  rank 
and  fortune,  was  also  abandoned  to  the  mercy  of  the  exas- 
perated Americans.  The  privates  caught  the  infection  from 
their  officers,  and  Lionel  saw,  that  in  place  of  the  high  and 
insulting  confidence  with  which  the  troops  had  wheeled  into 
the  streets  of  Concord,  that  they  left  them,  when  the  order 
was  given  to  march,  with  faces  bent  anxiously  on  the  sur- 
rounding heights,  and  with  looks  that  bespoke  a conscious- 
ness of  the  dangers  that  were  likely  to  beset  the  long  road 
which  lay  before  them. 

Their  apprehensions  were  not  groundless.  The  troops 
had  hardly  commenced  their  march  before  a volley  was 
fired  upon  them  from  the  protection  of  a barn,  and  as  they 
advanced,  volley  succeeded  volley,  and  musket  answered 
musket  from  behind  every  cover  that  offered  to  their  assail- 
ants. At  first  these  desultory  and  feeble  attacks  were  but 
little  regarded ; a brisk  charge,  and  a smart  fire  of  a few 
moments  never  failed  to  disperse  their  enemies,  when  the 
troops  again  proceeded  for  a short  distance  unmolested. 
But  the  alarm  of  the  preceding  night  had  gathered  the 
people  over  an  immense  extent  of  country ; and,  having 
waited  for  information,  those  nearest  to  the  scene  of  action 
were  already  pressing  forward  to  the  assistance  of  their 
friends.  There  was  but  little  order,  and  no  concert  among 
the  Americans ; but  each  party,  as  it  arrived,  pushed  into 


126 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


the  fray,  hanging  on  the  skirts  of  their  enemies,  or  making 
spirited,  though  ineffectual  efforts  to  stop  their  progress. 
While  the  men  from  the  towns  behind  them  pressed  upon 
their  rear,  the  population  in  their  front  accumulated  in 
bodies,  like  a rolling  ball  of  snow,  and  before  half  the  dis- 
tance between  Concord  and  Lexington  was  accomplished, 
Lionel  perceived  that  the  safety  of  their  boasted  power  was 
in  extreme  jeopardy.  During  the  first  hour  of  these  attacks, 
while  they  were  yet  distant,  desultory,  and  feeble,  the  young 
soldier  had  marched  by  the  side  of  M’Fuse,  who  shook  his 
head  disdainfully  whenever  a shot  whistled  near  him,  and 
did  not  fail  to  comment  freely  on  the  folly  of  commencing 
a war  thus  prematurely,  which,  if  properly  nursed,  might,  to 
use  his  own  words,  " be  in  time  brought  to  something  pretty 
and  interesting.  ’ ’ 

"You  perceive,  Major  Lincoln,”  he  added,  "that  these 
provincials  have  got  the  first  elements  of  the  art,  for  the 
rascals  fire  with  exceeding  accuracy,  when  the  distance  is  j 
considered  ; and  six  months  or  a year  of  close  drilling  would 
make  them  good  for  something  in  a regular  charge.  They 
have  got  a smart  crack  to  their  p’aces,  and  a pretty  whiz  to 
their  lead  already ; if  they  could  but  learn  to  deliver  their 
fire  in  platoons,  the  lads  might  make  some  impression  on 
the  light  infantry  even  now  ; and  in  a year  or  two,  sir,  they 
would  not  be  unworthy  of  the  favors  of  the  grenadiers.” 

Lionel  listened  to  this,  and  much  other  similar  discourse,  j 
with  a vacant  ear;  but  as  the  combat  thickened,  the  blood 
of  the  young  man  began  to  course  more  swiftly  through  his 
veins;  and  at  length,  excited  by  the  noise  and  the  danger 
which  was  pressing  more  closely  around  them,  he  mounted, 
and,  riding  to  the  commander  of  the  detachment,  tendered 
his  assistance  as  a volunteer  aid,  having  lost  every  other 
sensation  in  youthful  blood,  and  the  pride  of  arms.  He  was 
immediately  charged  with  orders  for  the  advance,  and  driv- 
ing his  spurs  into  his  steed,  he  dashed  through  the  scattered 
line  of  fighting  and  jaded  troops,  and  galloped  to  its  head. 
Here  he  found  several  companies,  diligently  employed  in 
clearing  the  way  for  their  comrades,  as  new  foes  appeared 
at  every  few  rods  that  they  advanced.  Kven  as  Lionel 


^Lionel  Xtncoln 


I27 


approached,  a heavy  sheet  of  fire  flashed  from  a close  barn- 
yard, full  in  the  faces  of  the  leading  files,  sending  the  swift 
engines  of  death  into  the  very  centre  of  the  party. 

‘ ‘ Wheel  a company  of  the  light  infantry,  Captain  Pol- 
wartli,”  cried  the  old  major  of  marines,  who  battled  stoutly 
in  the  van,  “ and  drive  the  skulking  scoundrels  from  their 
ambush.’  ’ 

“ O ! by  the  sweets  of  ease,  and  the  hopes  of  a halt ! but 
here  is  another  tribe  of  these  white  savages  ! ’ ’ responded 
the  unfortunate  captain.  “ Look  out,  my  brave  men! 
blaze  away  over  the  walls  on  your  left — give  no  quarter 
to  the  annoying  rascals — get  the  first  shot — give  them  a 
foot  of  your  steel.” 

While  venting  such  terrible  denunciations  and  commands, 
which  were  drawn  from  the  peaceable  captain  by  the  force 
of  circumstances,  Lionel  beheld  his  friend  disappear  amid 
the  buildings  of  the  farmyard  in  a cloud  of  smoke,  followed 
by  his  troops.  In  a few  minutes  afterwards,  as  the  line 
toiled  its  way  up  the  hill  on  which  this  scene  occurred,  Pol- 
warth  reappeared,  issuing  from  the  fray  with  his  face 
blackened  and  grimed  with  powder,  while  a sheet  of  flame 
arose  from  the  spot,  which  soon  laid  the  devoted  buildings 
of  the  unfortunate  husbandman  in  ruins. 

“ Ha  ! Major  Lincoln,”  he  cried,  as  he  approached  the 
other,  ‘ ‘ do  you  call  these  light  infantry  movements  ! to  me 
they  are  the  torments  of  the  damned  ! Go,  you  who  have 
influence,  and,  what  is  better,  a horse,  go  to  Smith,  and  tell 
him  if  he  will  call  a halt,  I will  engage,  with  my  single  com- 
pany, to  seat  ourselves  in  any  field  he  may  select,  and  keep 
these  blood-suckers  at  bay  for  an  hour,  while  the  detach- 
ment can  rest  and  satisfy  their  hunger — trusting  that  he 
will  then  allow  time  for  his  defenders  to  perform  the  same 
necessary  operations.  A night-march — no  breakfast — a 
burning  sun — mile  after  mile — no  halt,  and  nothing  but 
fire,  fire — ’tis  opposed  to  every  principle  in  physics,  and 
even  to  the  anatomy  of  man,  to  think  he  can  endure  it  ! ” 

Lionel  endeavored  to  encourage  his  friend  to  new  exer- 
tions, and,  turning  away  from  their  leader,  spoke  cheeringly, 
and  with  a martial  tone,  to  his  troops.  The  men  cheered 


128 


%ionci  ^Lincoln 


as  they  passed,  and  dashed  forward  to  new  encounters  ; the 
Americans  yielding  sullenly,  but  necessarily,  to  the  constant 
charges  of  the  bayonet,  to  which  the  regulars  resorted  to 
dislodge  them.  As  the  advance  moved  on  again,  Lionel 
turned  to  contemplate  the  scene  in  the  rear.  They  had  now 
been  marching  and  fighting  for  two  hours  with  little  or  no 
cessation  ; and  it  was  but  too  evident  that  the  force  of  the 
assailants  was  increasing,  both  in  numbers  and  in  daring  at 
each  step  they  took.  On  either  side  of  the  highway,  along 
the  skirts  of  every  wood  or  orchard,  in  the  open  fields,  and 
from  every  house,  barn,  or  cover  in  sight,  the  flash  of  fire- 
arms was  to  be  seen,  while  the  shouts  of  the  English  grew, 
at  each  instant,  feebler  and  less  inspiriting.  Heavy  clouds 
of  smoke  rose  above  the  valley  into  which  he  looked,  and 
mingled  with  the  dust  of  the  march,  drawing  an  impenetra- 
ble veil  before  the  view ; but  as  the  wind,  at  moments, 
shoved  it  aside,  he  caught  glimpses  of  the  worried  and  fal- 
tering platoons  of  the  party,  sometimes  breasting  and  repuls- 
ing an  attack  with  spirit,  and  at  others  shrinking  from  the 
contest,  with  an  ill-concealed  desire  to  urge  their  retreat  to 
the  verge  of  an  absolute  flight.  Young  as  he  was,  Major 
Lincoln  knew  enoughs  of  his  profession  to  understand  that 
nothing  but  the  want  of  concert,  and  of  a unity  of  command 
arfioifg  the  Americans,  saved  the  detachment  from  total  de- 
struction. The  attacks  were  growing  extremely  spirited, 
and  not  unfrequently  close  and  bloody,  though  the  discipline 
of  the  troops  enabled  them  still  to  bear  up  against  this  des- 
ultory and  divided  warfare,  when  Lionel  heard,  with  a 
pleasure  he  could  not  conceal,  the  loud  shouts  that  arose 
from  the  van,  as  the  cheering  intelligence  was  proclaimed 
through  the  ranks,  that  the  cloud  of  dust  in  their  front  was 
raised  by  a chosen  brigade  of  their  comrades  which  had  come 
most  timely  to  their  succor,  with  the  heir  of  Northumberland 
at  its  head.  The  Americans  gave  way  as  the  two  detach- 
ments joined,  and  the  artillery  of  the  succors  opened  upon 
their  flying  parties,  giving  a few  minutes  of  stolen  rest  to 
those  who  needed  it  so  much.  Polwarth  threw  himself  flat 
on  the  earth,  as  Lionel  dismounted  at  his  side,  and  his 
example  was  followed  by  the  whole  party,  who  lay  panting, 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


I29 


under  the  heat  and  fatigue,  like  worried  deer,  that  had 
succeeded  in  throwing  the  hounds  from  their  scent. 

“Aslama  gentleman  of  simple  habits,  and  a man  inno- 
cent of  all  this  bloodshed,  Major  Lincoln,”  said  the  captain, 
“ I pronounce  this  march  to  be  a most  unjust  draft  on  the 
resources  of  human  nature.  I have  journeyed  at  least  five 
leagues  between  this  spot  and  that  place  of  discord  that  they 
falsely  call  Concord,  within  two  hours,  amidst  dust,  smoke, 
groans,  and  other  infernal  cries,  that  would  cause  the  best- 
trained  racer  in  England  to  bolt ; and  breathing  an  air,  all 
the  time,  that  would  boil  an  egg  in  two  minutes  and  a quar- 
ter, if  fairly  exposed  to  it. ’ 1 

“You  overrate  the  distance — ’t  is  but  two  leagues  by  the 
stones — ’ 9 

“Stones!”  interrupted  Polwarth.  “I  scorn  their  lies: 
I have  a leg  here  that  is  a better  index  for  miles,  feet,  or 
even  inches,  than  was  ever  chiselled  in  stone.” 

“We  must  not  contest  this  idle  point,”  returned  Lionel, 
“for  I see  the  troops  are  about  to  dine ; and  we  have  need 
of  every  moment  to  reach  Boston  before  the  night  closes 
around  us.” 

“Eat ! — Boston  ! — night ! ” slowly  repeated  Polwarth, 
raising  himself  on  one  arm,  and  staring  wildly  about  him. 

‘ 1 Surely  no  man  among  us  is  so  mad  as  to  talk  of  moving 
from  this  spot  short  of  a week  : it  would  take  half  that 
time  to  receive  the  internal  refreshment  necessary  to  our 
systems,  and  the  remainder  to  restore  us  healthy  appetites.” 

“Such,  however,  are  the  orders  of  the  Earl  Percy,  from 
whom  I learn  that  the  whole  country  is  rising  in  our  front.” 

“Ay,  but  they  are  fellows  who  slept  peacefully  in  their 
beds  the  past  night ; and  I dare  say  that  every  dog  among 
them  ate  his  half  pound  of  pork,  together  with  additions 
suitable  for  a breakfast,  before  he  crossed  his  threshold  this 
morning.  But  with  us  the  case  is  different.  It  is  incum- 
bent on  two  thousand  British  troops  to  move  with  delibera- 
tion, if  it  should  be  only  for  the  credit  of  his  majesty’s  arms. 
No,  no  ; the  gallant  Percy  too  highly  respects  his  princely 
lineage  and  name,  to  assume  the  appearance  of  flight  before 

a mob  of  base-born  hinds  ! ’ ’ 

9 


13° 


Xfortel  ^Lincoln 


The  intelligence  of  Lionel  was  nevertheless  true ; for, 
after  a short  halt,  allowing  barely  time  enough  to  the  troops 
to  eat  a hasty  meal,  the  drums  again  beat  the  signal  to 
march,  and  Polwarth,  as  well  as  many  hundred  others,  was 
reluctantly  compelled  to  resume  his  feet,  under  the  penalty 
of  being  abandoned  to  the  fury  of  the  exasperated  Ameri- 
cans. While  the  troops  were  in  a state  of  rest,  the  field- 
pieces  of  the  reinforcement  kept  their  foes  at  a distance ; 
but  the  instant  guns  were  limbered,  and  the  files  had  once 
more  opened  for  room,  the  attacks  were  renewed  from  every 
quarter,  with  redoubled  fury.  The  excesses  of  the  troops, 
who  had  begun  to  vent  their  anger  by  plundering  and  firing 
the  dwellings  that  they  passed,  added  to  the  bitterness  of 
the  attacks  ; and  the  march  had  not  been  renewed  many 
minutes,  before  a fiercer  conflict  raged  along  its  skirts  than 
had  been  before  witnessed  on  that  day. 

“ Would  to  God  that  the  Northumbrian  would  form  us  in 
order  of  battle,  and  make  a fair  field  with  the  Yankees  ! ” 
groaned  Polwarth,  as  he  toiled  his  way  once  more  with  the 
advance.  “ Half  an  hour  would  settle  the  matter,  and  a man 
would  then  possess  the  gratification  of  seeing  himself  a victor, 
or  at  least  of  knowing  that  he  was  comfortably  and  quietly 
dead.  ’ ’ 

1 ‘ Few  of  us  would  ever  arrive  in  the  morning,  if  we  left 
the  Americans  a night  to  gather  in  ; and  a halt  of  an  hour 
would  lose  us  the  advantages  of  the  whole  march,”  returned 
Lionel.  “ Cheer  up,  my  old  comrade,  and  you  will  establish 
your  reputation  for  activity  forever.  Here  comes  a party  of 
the  provincials  over  the  crest  of  the  hill  to  keep  you  in  em- 
ployment.” 

Polwarth  cast  a look  of  despair  at  Lionel,  as  he  muttered 
in  reply, — 

‘ ‘ Employment ! God  knows  that  there  has  not  been  a 
single  muscle,  sinew,  or  joint  in  my  body  in  a state  of  whole- 
some rest  for  four-and-twenty  hours  ! ’ ’ Then  turning  to  his 
men,  he  cried,  with  tones  so  cheerful  and  animated,  that  they 
seemed  to  proceed  from  a final  and  closing  exertion,  as  he 
led  them  gallantly  into  the  approaching  fray — ‘ ‘ Scatter  the 
dogs,  my  brave  friends  ! Away  with  them  like  gnats,  like 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


*3* 


mosquitoes,  like  leeches,  as  they  are  ! Give  it  them — lead 
and  steel  by  handfuls — ” 

‘ ‘ On — push  on  with  the  advance  ! ’ ’ shouted  the  old 
major  of  marines,  who  observed  the  leading  platoons  to 
stagger. 

The  voice  of  Pol  war  th  was  once  more  heard  in  the  din, 
and  their  irregular  assailants  sullenly  yielded  before  the 
charge. 

‘ ‘ On — on  with  the  advance  ! ’ ’ cried  fifty  voices  out  of  a 
cloud  of  smoke  and  dust  that  was  moving  up  the  hill,  on 
whose  side  this  encounter  occurred. 

In  this  manner  the  war  continued  to  roll  slowly  onward, 
following  the  weary  and  heavy  footsteps  of  the  soldiery,  who 
had  now  toiled  for  many  miles,  surrounded  by  the  din  of 
battle,  and  leaving  in  their  path  the  bloody  impressions  of 
their  footsteps.  Lionel  was  enabled  to  trace  their  route,  far 
towards  the  north,  by  the  bright  red  spots  which  lay  scat- 
tered in  alarming  numbers  along  the  highway,  and  in  the 
fields,  through  which  the  troops  occasionally  moved.  He 
even  found  time,  in  the  intervals  of  rest,  to  note  the  differ- 
ence in  the  characters  of  the  combatants.  Whenever  the 
ground  or  the  circumstances  admitted  of  a regular  attack, 
the  dying  confidence  of  the  troops  would  seem  restored  ; 
and  they  moved  up  to  the  charge  with  the  bold  carriage 
which  high  discipline  inspires,  rending  the  air  with  shouts, 
while  their  enemies  melted  before  their  power  in  sullen 
silence,  never  ceasing  to  use  their  weapons,  however,  with 
an  expertness  that  rendered  them  doubly  dangerous.  The 
direction  of  the  columns  frequently  brought  the  troops  over 
ground  that  had  been  sharply  contested  in  front,  and  the 
victims  of  these  short  struggles  came  under  the  eyes  of  the 
detachment.  It  was  necessary  to  turn  a deaf  ear  to  the 
cries  and  prayers  of  many  wounded  soldiers,  who,  with  hor- 
ror and  abject  fear  written  on  every  feature  of  their  counte- 
nances, were  the  helpless  witnesses  of  the  retreating  files  of 
their  comrades.  , On  the  other  hand,  the  American  lay  in  his 
blood,  regarding  the  passing  detachment  with  a stern  and 
indignant  eye,  that  appeared  to  look  far  beyond  his  individual 
suffering.  Over  one  body,  Lionel  pulled  the  reins  of  his 


i32 


aLxonel  OLtncoln 


horse,  and  he  paused  a moment  to  consider  the  spectacle. 
It  was  the  lifeless  form  of  a man,  whose  white  locks,  hol- 
low cheeks,  and  emaciated  frame,  denoted  that  the  bullet 
which  had  stricken  him  to  the  earth  had  anticipated  the 
irresistible  decrees  of  time  but  a very  few  days.  He  had 
fallen  on  his  back,  and  his  glazed  eye  expressed,  even  in 
death,  the  honest  resentment  he  had  felt  while  living ; and 
his  palsied  hand  continued  to  grasp  the  firelock,  old  and 
time-worn,  like  its  owner,  with  which  he  had  taken  the  field 
in  behalf  of  his  country. 

“ Where  can  a contest  end  which  calls  such  champions  to 
its  aid  !”  exclaimed  Lionel,  observing  that  the  shadow  of 
another  spectator  fell  across  the  wan  features  of  the  dead  ; 
“ who  can  tell  where  this  torrent  of  blood  can  be  stayed,  or 
how  many  are  to  be  its  victims  ! ” 

Receiving  no  answer,  he  raised  his  eyes,  and  discovered 
that  he  had  unwittingly  put  this  searching  question  to  the 
very  man  whose  rashness  had  precipitated  the  war.  It  was 
the  major  of  marines,  who  sat  looking  at  the  sight,  for  a 
minute,  with  an  eye  as  vacant  as  the  one  that  seemed  to 
throw  back  his  wild  gaze,  and  then,  rousing  from  his  trance 
he  buried  his  rowels  in  the  flanks  of  his  horse,  and  disap- 
peared in  the  smoke  that  enveloped  a body  of  the  grena- 
diers, waving  his  sword  on  high,  and  shouting, — 

‘ ‘ On — push  on  with  the  advance  ! ’ ’ 

Major  Lincoln  slowly  followed,  musing  on  the  scene  he 
had  witnessed,  when,  to  his  surprise,  he  encountered  Pol- 
warth,  seated  on  a rock  by  the  roadside,  looking  with  a list- 
less and  dull  eye  at  the  retreating  columns.  Checking  his 
oharger,  he  inquired  of  his  friend  if  he  was  hurt. 

‘ ‘ Only  melted,  ’ ’ returned  the  captain  ; ‘ ‘ I have  outdone 
the  speed  of  man  this  day,  Major  Lincoln,  and  can  do  no 
more.  If  you  see  any  of  my  friends  in  dear  England,  tell 
them  that  I met  my  fate  as  a soldier  should,  stationary  ; 
though  I am  actually  melting  away  in  rivulets,  like  the  snows 
of  April.” 

“ Good  God!  you  will  not  remain  here  to  be  slain  by 
the  provincials,  by  whom  you  see  we  are  completely  envel- 
oped? ” 


%ioncl  Lincoln 


133 


“ I am  preparing  a speech  for  the  first  Yankee  who  may 
approach.  If  he  be  a true  man,  he  will  melt  into  tears  at 
my  sufferings  this  day — if  a savage,  my  heirs  will  be  spared 
the  charges  of  my  funeral ! ’ ’ 

Lionel  would  have  continued  his  remonstrances,  but  a 
fierce  encounter  between  a flanking  party  of  the  troops  and 
a body  of  Americans,  drove  the  former  close  upon  him  ; and, 
leaping  the  wall,  he  rallied  his  comrades,  and  turned  the 
tide  of  battle  in  their  favor.  He  was  drawn  far  from  the 
spot  by  the  vicissitudes  of  the  combat,  and  there  was  a mo- 
ment, while  passing  from  one  body  of  the  troops  to  another, 
that  he  found  himself  unexpectedly  alone,  in  a most  danger- 
ous vicinity  to  a small  wood.  The  hurried  call  of  ‘ ‘ Pick 
off  that  officer  ! ’ ’ first  aroused  him  to  his  extreme  danger, 
and  he  had  mechanically  bowed  himself  on  the  neck  of  his 
charger,  in  expectation  of  the  fatal  messengers,  when  a 
voice  was  heard  among  the  Americans,  crying,  in  tones  that 
caused  every  nerve  in  his  body  to  thrill, — 

“ Spare  him  ! for  the  love  of  that  God  you  worship,  spare 
him  ! ” 

The  overwhelming  sensations  of  the  moment  prevented 
flight,  and  the  young  man  beheld  Ralph,  running  with  fran- 
tic gestures,  along  the  skirts  of  the  cover,  beating  up  the 
fire-arms  of  twenty  Americans,  and  repeating  his  cries  in  a 
voice  that  did  not  seem  to  belong  to  a human  being  ; then, 
in  the  confusion  which  whirled  through  his  brain,  Lionel 
thought  himself  a prisoner,  as  a man,  armed  with  a long 
rifle,  glided  from  the  wood,  and  laid  his  hand  on  the  rein  of 
his  bridle,  saying  earnestly, — 

“ ’ T is  a bloody  day,  and  God  will  remember  it ; but  if 
Major  Lincoln  will  ride  straight  down  the  hill,  the  people 
won’t  fire  for  fear  of  hitting  Job  ; and  when  Job  fires,  he  ’ll 
shoot  that  grann}^  who  ’s  getting  over  the  wall,  and  there  ’ll 
never  be  a stir  about  it  in  Funnel  Hall.” 

Lionel  wheeled  away  quicker  than  thought,  and  as  his 
charger  took  long  and  desperate  leaps  down  the  slight  de- 
clivity, he  heard  the  shouts  of  the  Americans  behind  him, 
the  crack  of  Job’s  rifle,  and  the  whizzing  of  the  bullet  which 
the  changeling  sent,  as  he  had  promised,  in  a direction  to  do 


134 


Xfonel  ^Lincoln 


him  no  harm.  On  gaining  a place  of  comparative  safety, 
he  found  Pitcairn  in  the  act  of  abandoning  his  bleeding 
horse,  the  close  and  bitter  attacks  of  the  provincials  render- 
ing it  no  longer  safe  for  an  officer  to  be  seen  riding  on  the 
flanks  of  the  detachment.  Lionel,  though  he  valued  his 
steed  highly,  had  also  received  so  many  intimations  of  the 
dangerous  notice  he  had  attracted,  that  he  was  soon  obliged 
to  follow  this  example  ; and  he  saw,  with  deep  regret,  the 
noble  animal  scouring  across  the  fields  with  a loose  rein, 
snorting  and  snuffing  the  tainted  air.  He  now  joined  a 
party  of  the  combatants  on  foot,  and  continued  to  animate 
them  to  new  exertions  during  the  remainder  of  the  tedious 
way. 

From  the  moment  the  spires  of  Boston  met  the  view  of 
the  troops,  the  struggle  became  intensely  interesting.  New 
vigor  was  imparted  to  their  weary  frames  by  the  cheering 
sight,  and,  assuming  once  more  the  air  of  high  martial  train- 
ing, they  bore  up  against  the  assaults  of  their  enemies  with 
renewed  spirit.  On  the  other  hand,  the  Americans  seemed 
awrare  that  the  moments  of  vengeance  were  passing  swiftly 
away,  and  boys,  and  gray-headed  men,  the  wounded  and 
the  active,  crowded  around  their  invaders,  as  if  eager  to 
obtain  a parting  blow.  Even  the  peaceful  ministers  of 
God  were  known  to  take  the  field  on  that  memorable  occa- 
sion, and,  mingling  with  their  parishioners,  to  brave  every 
danger  in  a cause  which  they  believed  in  consonance  with 
their  holy  calling.  The  sun  was  sinking  over  the  land,  and 
the  situation  of  the  detachment  had  become  nearly  desper- 
ate, when  Percy  abandoned  the  idea  of  reaching  the  Neck, 
across  which  he  had  proudly  marched  that  morning  from 
Boston,  and  strained  every  nerve  to  get  the  remainder  of 
his  command  within  the  peninsula  of  Charlestown.  The 
crests  and  the  sides  of  the  heights  were  alive  with  men,  and 
as  the  shades  of  evening  closed  about  the  combatants,  the 
bosoms  of  the  Americans  beat  high  with  hope,  while  they 
witnessed  the  faltering  steps  and  slackened  fire  of  the 
troops.  But  high  discipline  finally  so  far  prevailed  as  to 
snatch  the  English  from  the  very  grasp  of  destruction,  and 
enabled  them  to  gain  the  narrow  entrance  to  the  desired 


Xtonel  Xlncoltt 


13s 

shelter  just  as  night  had  come  apparently  to  seal  their 
doom. 

Lionel  stood  leaning  against  a fence,  as  this  fine  body  of 
men,  which  a few  hours  before  had  thought  themselves 
equal  to  a march  through  the  colonies,  defiled  slowly  and 
heavily  by  him,  dragging  their  weary  and  exhausted  limbs 
up  the  toilsome  ascent  of  Bunker  Hill.  The  haughty  eyes 
of  most  of  the  officers  were  bent  to  the  earth  in  shame,  and 
the  common  herd,  even  in  that  place  of  security,  cast  many 
an  anxious  glance  behind  them,  to  assure  themselves  that 
the  despised  inhabitants  of  the  province  were  no  longer 
pressing  on  their  footsteps.  Platoon  after  platoon  passed, 
each  man  compelled  to  depend  on  his  own  wearied  limbs  for 
support,  until  Lionel  at  last  saw  a solitary  horseman  slowly 
ascending  among  the  crowd.  To  his  utter  amazement  and 
great  joy,  as  this  officer  approached,  he  beheld  Polwarth, 
mounted  on  his  own  steed,  riding  towards  him,  with 
a face  of  the  utmost  complacency  and  composure.  The 
dress  of  the  captain  was  torn  in  many  places,  and  the  hous- 
ings of  the  saddle  were  cut  into  ribbons,  while  here  and 
there  a spot  of  clotted  blood,  on  the  sides  of  the  beast, 
.served  to  announce  the  particular  notice  the  rider  had 
received  from  the  Americans.  The  truth  was  soon  extorted 
from  the  honest  soldier.  The  love  of  life  had  returned 
with  the  sight  of  the  abandoned  charger.  He  acknowledged 
it  had  cost  him  his  watch  to  have  the  beast  caught ; but, 
once  established  in  the  saddle,  no  danger,  nor  any  remon- 
strances, could  induce  him  to  relinquish  a seat  which  he 
found  so  consoling  after  all  the  fatigue  and  motion  of  that 
evil  day,  in  which  he  had  been  compelled  to  share  in  the 
calamities  of  those  who  fought  on  the  side  of  the  crown  in 
the  memorable  battle  of  Lexington. 


CHAPTER  XI. 


u FlueL  Is  it  not  lawful,  an’  please  your  majesty, 

To  tell  how  many  is  killed  ? ” 

King  Henry  V \ 

WHILE  a strong  party  of  the  royal  troops  took 
post  on  the  height  which  commanded  the 
approach  to  their  position,  the  remainder 
penetrated  deeper  into  the  peninsula,  or 
were  transported  by  the  boats  of  the  fleet  to  the  town  of 
Boston.  Lionel  and  Polwarth  passed  the  strait  with  the 
first  division  of  the  wounded,  the  former  having  no  duty  to 
detain  him  any  longer  with  the  detachment,  and  the  latter 
stoutly  maintaining  that  his  corporeal  sufferings  gave  him 
an  undoubted  claim  to  include  his  case  among  the  casualties 
of  the  day.  Perhaps  no  officer  in  the  army  of  the  king  felt 
less  chagrin  at  the  result  of  this  inroad  than  Major  Lincoln  ; 
for,  notwithstanding  his  attachment  to  his  prince  and  adopted 
country,  he  was  keenly  sensitive  on  the  subject  of  the  repu- 
tation of  his  real  countrymen,  a sentiment  that  is  honorable 
to  our  nature,  and  which  never  deserts  any  that  do  not  be- 
come disloyal  to  its  purest  and  noblest  impulses.  Even 
while  he  regretted  the  price  at  which  his  comrades  had 
been  taught  to  appreciate  the  characters  of  those  whose 
long  and  mild  forbearance  had  been  misconstrued  into  pusil- 
lanimity, he  rejoiced  that  the  eyes  of  the  more  aged  would 
now  be  opened  to  the  truth,  and  that  the  mouths  of  the  young 
and  thoughtless  were  to  be  forever  closed  in  shame.  Although 
the  actual  losses  of  the  two  detachments  were  probably  con- 
cealed from  motives  of  policy,  it  was  early  acknowledged  to 
amount  to  about  one  sixth  of  the  whole  number  employed. 

136 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


137 


On  the  wharf,  Lionel  and  Polwarth  separated  ; the  latter 
agreeing  to  repair  speedily  to  the  private  quarters  of  his 
friend,  where  he  promised  himself  a solace  for  the  compul- 
sory abstinence  and  privations  of  his  long  march,  and  the 
former  taking  his  way  toward  Tremont  Street,  with  a view 
to  allay  the  uneasiness  which  the  secret  and  flattering 
whisperings  of  hope  taught  him  to  believe  his  fair  young 
kinswomen  would  feel  in  his  behalf.  At  every  corner  he 
encountered  groups  of  earnest  townsmen,  listening  with 
greedy  ears  to  the  particulars  of  the  contest,  a few  walking 
away  dejected  at  the  spirit  exhibited  by  that  country  they 
had  vilified  to  its  oppressors  ; but  most  of  them  regarding 
the  passing  form  of  one  whose  disordered  dress  announced 
his  participation  in  the  affair,  with  glances  of  stern  satis- 
faction. As  Lionel  tapped  at  the  door  of  Mrs.  Lechmere,  he 
forgot  his  fatigue  ; and  when  it  opened,  and  he  beheld  Cecil 
standing  in  the  hall,  with  every  lineament  of  her  fine  coun- 
tenance expressing  the  power  of  her  emotions,  he  no  longer 
remembered  those  trying  dangers  he  had  so  lately  escaped. 

“ Lionel  ! ” exclaimed  the  young  lady,  clasping  her  hands 
with  joy, — “ himself,  and  unhurt  ! ” The  blood  rushed 
from  her  heart  across  her  face  to  her  forehead,  and  burying 
her  shame  in  her  hands,  she  burst  into  a flood  of  tears,  and 
fled  his  presence. 

Agnes  Danforth  received  him  with  undisguised  pleasure, 
nor  would  she  indulge  in  a single  question  to  appease  her 
burning  curiosity,  until  thoroughly  assured  of  his  perfect 
safety.  Then,  indeed,  she  remarked,  with  a smile  of  tri- 
umph seated  on  her  arch  features, — 

“Your  march  has  been  well  attended,  Major  Lincoln; 
from  the  upper  windows  I have  seen  some  of  the  honors 
which  the  good  people  of  Massachusetts  have  paid  to  their 
visitors.” 

“On  my  soul,  if  it  were  not  for  the  dreadful  consequences 
which  must  follow,  I rejoice,  as  well  as  yourself,  in  the 
events  of  the  day,”  said  Lincoln  ; “ for  a people  are  never 
certain  of  their  rights  until  they  are  respected.” 

“ Tell  me,  then,  all,  cousin  Lincoln,  that  I may  know  how 
to  boast  of  my  parentage.” 


Xionel  SUrtcoIn 


133 


The  young  man  gave  her  a short,  but  distinct  and  impar- 
tial account  of  all  that  had  occurred,  to  which  his  fair 
listener  attended  with  undisguised  interest. 

'‘Now,  then,”  she  exclaimed,  as  he  ended,  “there  is  an 
end  forever  of  those  biting  taunts  that  have  so  long  insulted 
our  ears  ! But  you  know,”  she  added,  with  a slight  blush, 
and  a smile  most  comically  arch,  “ I had  a double  stake  in 
the  fortunes  of  the  day, — my  country,  and  my  true  love  ! ” 

“ O ! be  at  ease  ; your  worshipper  has  returned,  whole  in 
body,  and  suffering  in  mind  only  through  your  cruelty  ; he 
performed  the  route  with  wonderful  address,  and  really 
showed  himself  a soldier  in  danger.  ’ ’ 

“Nay,  Major  Lincoln,”  returned  Agnes,  still  blushing, 
though  she  laughed  ; “ you  do  not  mean  to  insinuate  that 
Peter  Polwarth  has  walked  forty  miles  between  the  rising 
and  setting  of  the  sun  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Between  two  sunsets  he  has  done  the  deed,  if  you  ex- 
cept a trifling  promenade  h cheval , on  my  own  steed,  whom  ( 
Jonathan  compelled  me  to  abandon,  and  of  whom  he  took, 
and  maintained  the  possession,  too,  in  spite  of  dangers  of 
every  kind.” 

“Really,”  exclaimed  the  wilful  girl,  clasping  her  hands 
in  affected  astonishment,  though  Lionel  thought  he  could 
read  inward  satisfaction  at  his  intelligence,  ‘ ‘ the  prodigies 
of  the  man  exceed  belief!  One  wants  the  faith  of  father 
Abraham  to  credit  such  marvels  ! Though,  after  the  re- 
pulse of  two  thousand  British  soldiers  by  a body  of  husband- 
men, I am  prepared  for  an  exceeding  use  of  my  credulity.”  1 
“The  moment  is,  then,  auspicious  for  my  friend,”  whis- 
pered Lionel,  rising  to  follow  the  flitting  form  of  Cecil 
Dynevor,  which  he  saw  gliding  into  the  opposite  room,  as 
Polwarth  himself  entered  the  apartment.  “ Credulity  is 
said  to  be  the  great  weakness  of  your  sex,  and  I must  leave 
you  a moment  exposed  to  the  failing,  and  that,  too,  in  the 
dangerous  company  of  the  subject  of  our  discourse.” 

“ Now  would  you  give  half  your  hopes  of  promotion,  and 
all  your  hopes  of  a war,  Captain  Polwarth,  to  know  in  what 
manner  your  character  has  been  treated  in  your  absence  ! ” 
cried  Agnes,  blushing  slightly.  M I shall  not,  however, 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


139 


satisfy  the  cravings  of  your  curiosity,  but  let  it  serve  as  a 
stimulant  to  better  deeds  than  have  employed  you  since  we 
met  last.  ’ ’ 

“I  trust  Lincoln  has  done  justice  to  my  service,”  re- 
turned the  good-humored  captain,  “and  that  he  has  not 
neglected  to  mention  the  manner  in  which  I rescued  his  steed 
from  the  rebels?  ” 

“The  what,  sir?”  interrupted  Agnes,  with  a frown. 
“ How  did  you  style  the  good  people  of  Massachusetts 
Bay?” 

‘ ‘ I should  have  said  the  excited  dwellers  in  the  land,  I 
believe.  Ah  ! Miss  Agnes,  I have  suffered  this  day  as  man 
never  suffered  before  ; and  all  on  your  behalf — 9 1 

“On  my  behalf!  Your  words  require  explanation,  Cap- 
tain Polwarth.” 

“ ’T  is  impossible,”  returned  the  captain;  “there  are 
feelings  and  actions  connected  with  the  heart  that  will  admit 
of  no  explanation.  All  I know  is,  that  I have  suffered  un- 
utterably on  your  account,  to-day  ; and  what  is  unutterable 
is  in  a great  degree  inexplicable.” 

“ I shall  set  this  down  for  what  I understand  occurs 
regularly  in  a certain  description  of  tHe-a-tetes , — the  ex- 
pression of  an  unutterable  thing  ! Surely,  Major  Lincoln 
had  some  reason  to  believe  he  left  me  at  the  mercy  of  my 
credulit}^ ! ’ ’ 

“You  slander  your  own  character,  fair  Agnes,”  said  Pol- 
warth,  endeavoring  to  look  piteously;  “you  are  neither 
merciful  nor  credulous,  or  you  would  long  since  have  be- 
lieved my  tale,  and  taken  pity  on  my  misery.” 

“Is  not  sympathy  a sort — a kind — in  short,  is  not 
sympathy  a dreadful  symptom  in  a certain  disease  ? ’ 9 asked 
Agnes,  resting  her  eyes  on  the  floor,  and  affecting  a girlish 
embarrassment. 

“ Who  can  gainsay  it  ? ” cried  the  captain  ; “ ’t  is  the  in- 
fallible way  for  a young  lady  to  discover  the  bent  of  her  in- 
clinations. Thousands  have  lived  in  ignorance  of  their  own 
affections  until  their  sympathies  have  been  awakened.  But 
what  means  the  question,  my  fair  tormentor  ? May  I dare 
to  flatter  myself  that  you  at  length  feel  for  my  pains  ? ’ 9 


140 


Xionel  Xincoln 


“lam  sadly  afraid  ’t  is  but  too  true,  Polwarth,”  returned 
Agnes,  shaking  her  head,  and  continuing  to  look  exceedingly 
grave. 

Polwarth  moved,  with  something  like  animation  again, 
nigher  to  the  amused  girl,  and  attempted  to  take  her  hand, 
as  he  said, — 

‘‘You  restore  me  to  life  with  your  sweet  acknowledg- 
ments ; I have  lived  for  six  months  like  a dog  under  your 
frowns,  but  one  kind  word  acts  like  a healing  balm,  and 
restores  me  to  myself  again  ! ’ ’ 

“Then  my  sympathy  is  evaporated  ! ’ * returned  Agnes. 
‘ ‘ Throughout  this  long  and  anxious  day  have  I fancied  my- 
self older  than  my  good,  staid,  great-aunt ; and  whenever 
certain  thoughts  have  crossed  my  mind,  I have  even  im- 
agined a thousand  of  the  ailings  of  age  had  encircled  me, — 
rheumatism,  gouts,  asthmas,  and  numberless  other  aches 
and  pains,  exceeding  unbecoming  to  a young  lady  of  nine- 
teen. But  you  have  enlightened  me,  and  given  vast  relief 
to  my  apprehensions,  by  explaining  it  to  be  no  more  than 
sympathy.  You  see,  Polwarth,  what  a wife  you  will  obtain, 
should  I ever,  in  a weak  moment,  accept  you  ; for  I have 
already  sustained  one  half  your  burdens  ! ’ ’ 

“A  man  is  not  made  to  be  in  constant  motion,  like  the 
pendulum  of  that  clock,  Miss  Danforth,  and  yet  feel  no 
fatigue,”  said  Polwarth,  more  vexed  than  he  would  permit 
himself  to  betray  ; “ yet  I flatter  myself  there  is  no  officer  in 
the  light  infantry — you  understand  me  to  say  the  light  infan- 
try— who  has  passed  over  more  ground,  within  four-and- 
twenty  hours,  than  the  man  who  hastens,  notwithstanding 
his  exploits,  to  throw  himself  at  j^our  feet,  even  before  he 
thinks  of  his  ordinary  rest.  ’ * 

“Captain  Polwarth,”  said  Agnes,  rising,  “for  the  com- 
pliment, if  compliment  it  be,  I thank  you  ; but,”  she  added, 
losing  her  affected  gravity  in  a strong  natural  feeling  that 
shone  in  her  dark  eyes,  and  illuminated  the  whole  of  her 
fine  countenance,  as  she  laid  her  hand  impressively  on 
her  heart,  “the  man  who  will  supplant  the  feelings  which 
nature  has  impressed  here,  must  not  come  to  my  feet,  as  you 
call  it,  from  a field  of  battle,  where  he  has  been  contending 


Xfonel  Xlitcoln 


I41 


with  my  kinsmen,  and  helping  to  enslave  my  country.  You 
will  excuse  me,  sir,  but  as  Major  Lincoln  is  at  home  here, 
permit  me,  for  a few  minutes,  to  leave  you  to  his  hospitality.” 
She  withdrew  as  Lionel  re-entered,  passing  him  on  the 
threshold. 

“ I would  rather  be  a leader  in  a stage-coach,  or  a run- 
ning footman,  than  in  love  ! ” cried  Polwarth  ; “ ’tisa  dog’s 
life,  Leo,  and  this  girl  treats  me  like  a cart-horse  ! But  what 
an  eye  she  has  ! I could  have  lighted  my  cigar  by  it, — my 
heart  is  a heap  of  cinders.  Why,  Leo,  what  aileth  thee  ? 
throughout  the  whole  of  this  damnable  day,  I have  not  before 
seen  thee  bear  such  a troubled  look  ! ’ ’ 

“ Let  us  withdraw  to  my  private  quarters,”  muttered  the 
young  man,  whose  aspect  and  air  expressed  the  marks  of 
extreme  disturbance  ; “ ’t  is  time  to  repair  the  disasters  of 
our  march.  ’ ’ 

'‘All  that  has  been  already  looked  to,”  said  Polwarth, 
rising  and  limping,  with  sundry  grimaces,  in  the  best  man- 
ner he  was  able,  in  a vain  effort  to  equal  the  rapid  strides 
of  his  companion.  “ My  first  business  on  leaving  you  was 
to  borrow  a conveyance  of  a friend,  in  which  I rode  to  your 
place  ; and  my  next  was  to  write  to  little  Jimmy  Craig,  to 
offer  an  exchange  of  my  company  for  his, — for  from  this 
hour  henceforth  I denounce  all  light  infantry  movements, 
and  shall  take  the  first  opportunity  to  get  back  again  into 
the  dragoons  ; as  soon  as  I have  effected  which,  Major  Lin- 
coln, I propose  to  treat  with  you  for  the  purchase  of  that 
horse.  After  that  duty  was  performed, — for,  if  self-preser- 
vation be  commendable,  it  became  a duty, — I made  out  a bill 
of  fare  for  Meriton,  in  order  that  nothing  might  be  forgot- 
ten ; after  which,  like  yourself,  Lionel,  I hastened  to  the 
feet  of  my  mistress.  Ah  ! Major  Lincoln,  you  are  a happy 
man  ; for  you  there  is  no  reception,  but  smiles, — and  charms 
so — ” 

“Talk  not  tome,  sir,  of  smiles,”  interrupted  Lionel,  im- 
patiently, ‘ ‘ nor  of  the  charms  of  women.  They  are  all  alike, 
capricious  and  unaccountable.” 

“Bless  me  ! ” exclaimed  Polwarth,  staring  about  him  in 
wonder;  “there  is  then  favor  for  none,  in  this  place,  who 


142 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


battle  for  the  king  ! There  is  a strange  connection  between 
Cupid  and  Mars,  love  and  war  ; for  here  did  I,  after  fighting 
all  day  like  a Saracen,  a Turk,  Jenghis  Khan,  or,  in  short, 
anything  but  a good  Christian,  come  with  full  intent  to  make 
a serious  offer  of  my  hand,  commission,  and  of  Polwarth 
Hall,  to  that  treasonable  vixen,  when  she  repulses  me  with 
a frown  and  a sarcasm  as  biting  as  the  salutation  of  a hungry 
man.  But  what  an  eye  the  girl  has,  and  what  a bloom, 
when  she  is  a little  more  seasoned  than  common  ! Then  you, 
too,  Lionel,  have  been  treated  like  a dog  ! ” 

“Like  a fool,  as  I am,”  said  Lionel,  pacing  haughtily 
over  the  ground  at  a rate  that  soon  threw  his  companion 
too  far  in  the  rear  to  admit  of  further  discourse  until  they 
reached  the  place  of  their  destination.  Here,  to  the  no 
small  surprise  of  both  gentlemen,  they  found  a company 
collected  that  neither  was  prepared  to  meet.  At  a side- 
table  sat  M’Fuse,  discussing,  with  singular  relish,  some  of 
the  cold  viands  of  the  previous  night’s  repast,  and  washing  , 
down  his  morsels  with  deep  potations  of  the  best  wine  of  his 
host.  In  one  corner  of  the  room  Seth  Sage  was  posted, 
with  the  appearance  of  a man  in  duress,  his  hands  being 
tied  before  him,  from  which  depended  a long  cord,  that 
might,  on  emergency,  be  made  to  serve  the  purpose  of  a 
halter.  Opposite  to  the  prisoner,  for  such  in  truth  he  was, 
stood  Job,  imitating  the  example  of  the  captain  of  grena- 
diers,  who  now  and  then  tossed  some  fragment  of  his  meal 
into  the  hat  of  the  simpleton.  Meriton  and  several  of  the' 
menials  of  the  establishment  were  in  waiting. 

“What  have  we  here  ! ” cried  Lionel,  regarding  the  scene  i 
with  a curious  eye.  “ Of  what  offence  has  Mr.  Sage  been 
guilty,  that  he  bears  those  bonds  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Of  the  small  crimes  of  tr’  ason  and  homicide,  ’ ’ returned 
M’Fuse,  “ if  shooting  at  a man,  with  a hearty  mind  to  kill 
him,  can  make  murder.” 

“ It  can’t,”  said  Seth,  raising  his  eyes  from  the  floor, 
where  he  had  hitherto  kept  them  in  demure  silence;  “a 
man  must  kill  with  wicked  intent  to  commit  murder—” 

“ Hear  to  the  blackguard,  detailing  the  law  as  if  he  were 
my  lord  chief-justice  of  the  King’s  Bench  ! ” interrupted  the 


Xionei  Lincoln 


!43 


grenadier;  “and  what  was  your  own  wicked  intention,  ye 
skulking  vagabond,  but  to  kill  me  ! I ’ll  have  you  tried  and 
hung  for  the  same  act.” 

“ It  ’s  ag’in  reason  to  believe  that  any  jury  will  convict 
one  man  for  the  murder  of  another  that  ain’t  dead,”  said 
Seth  ; “there’s  no  jury  to  be  found  in  the  Bay  colony  to 
do  it  * * 

“Bay  colony,  ye  murdering  thief  and  rebel!”  cried  the 
captain  ; “ I ’ll  have  ye  transported  to  England  ; ye  shall  be 
both  transported  and  hung.  By  the  Lord,  I ’ll  carry  ye 
back  to  Ireland  with  me,  and  I ’ll  hang  ye  up  in  the  green 
island  itself,  and  bury  ye,  in  the  heart  of  winter,  in  a 
bog—” 

“ But  what  is  the  offence,”  demanded  Eionel,  “ that  calls 
forth  these  severe  threats  ? ’ ’ 

“ The  scoundrel  has  been  out — ” 

“Out!” 

‘ ‘ Ay,  out ! Damn  it,  sir,  has  not  the  whole  country  been 
like  so  many  bees  in  search  of  a hive  ? Is  your  memory  so 
short  that  ye  forget,  already,  Major  Lincoln,  the  tramp  the 
blackguards  have  given  you  over  hill  and  dale,  through 
thick  and  thin  ? ’ ’ 

“And  was  Mr.  Sage,  then,  found  among  our  enemies 
to-day  ? ’ ’ 

“ Didn’t  I see  him  pull  trigger  on  my  own  stature  three 
times  within  as  many  minutes  ? ’ ’ returned  the  angry  cap- 
tain ; “and  did  n’t  he  break  the  handle  of  my  sword?  And 
have  not  I a bit  of  lead  he  calls  a buckshot  in  my  shoulder 
as  a present  from  the  thief?  ” 

“ It ’s  ag’in  all  law  to  call  a man  a thief,”  said  Job,  “ un- 
less you  can  prove  it  upon  him  ; but  it  ain’t  ag’in  law  to  go 
in  and  out  of  Boston  as  often  as  you  choose.” 

“Do  you  hear  the  rascals  ! They  know  every  angle  of 
the  law  as  well,  or  better  than  I do  myself,  who  am  the  son 
of  a Cork  counsellor.  I dare  to  sa}^,  you  were  among  them 
too,  and  that  ye  deserve  the  gallows  as  well  as  your  com- 
mendable companion  there.  ’ ’ 

“How  is  this?”  said  Lionel,  turning  quickly  away  from 
Job,  with  a view  to  prevent  a reply  that  might  endanger 


144 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


the  safety  of  the  changeling.  ‘ ‘ Did  you  not  only  mingle  in 
this  rebellion,  Mr.  Sage,  but  also  attempt  the  life  of  a 
gentleman  who  may  be  said,  almost,  to  be  an  inmate  of 
your  own  house  ? ’ ’ 

“I  conclude,”  returned  Seth,  “it’s  best  not  to  talk  too 
much,  seeing  that  no  one  can  foretell  what  may  happen.” 

4 ‘ Hear  to  the  cunning  reprobate  ! he  has  not  the  grace  to 
acknowledge  his  own  sins,  like  an  honest  man,”  interrupted 
M’Fuse ; “ but  I can  save  him  that  small  trouble.  I got 
tired,  you  must  know,  Major  Lincoln,  of  being  shot  at  like 
noxious  vermin,  from  morning  till  night,  without  making 
some  return  to  the  compliments  of  those  gentlemen  who 
are  out  on  the  hills ; and  I took  advantage  of  a turn,  ye 
see,  to  double  on  a party  of  the  uncivilized  demons.  This 
lad,  here,  got  three  good  pulls  at  me,  before  we  closed  and 
made  an  end  of  them  with  the  steel,  all  but  the  fellow,  who, 
having  a becoming  look  for  a gallows,  I brought  him  in,  as 
you  see,  for  an  exchange,  intending  to  hang  him  the  first 
favorable  opportunity.” 

“ If  this  be  true,  we  must  give  him  into  the  hands  of  the 
proper  authorities,”  said  Lionel,  smiling  at  the  confused 
account  of  the  angry  captain ; ‘ ‘ for  it  remains  to  be  seen 
yet  what  course  will  be  adopted  with  the  prisoners  in  this 
singular  contest.  ’ ’ 

“ I should  think  nothing  of  the  matter,”  returned  M’Fuse, 
“if  the  reprobate  had  not  tr’ated  me  like  a beast  of  the 
field,  with  his  buckshot,  and  taking  his  aim  each  time,  as 
though  I had  been  a mad  dog.  Ye  villain,  do  you  call 
yourself  a man,  and  aim  at  a fellow-creature  as  you  would 
at  a brute  ? ’ ’ 

“Why,”  said  Seth,  sullenly,  “when  a man  has  pretty 
much  made  up  his  mind  to  fight,  I conclude  it ’s  best  to  take 
aim,  in  order  to  save  ammunition  and  time.” 

“You  acknowledge  the  charge,  then?  ” demanded  Lionel. 

“ As  the  major  is  a moderate  man,  and  will  hear  to  rea- 
son, I will  talk  the  matter  over  with  him  rationally,”  said 
Seth,  disposing  himself  to  speak  more  to  the  purpose. 
“You  see  I had  a small  call  to  Concord  early  this  morn- 
ing—” 


Xionet  Lincoln 


I4S 


“ Concord  ! ” exclaimed  Lionel. 

“ Yes,  Concord,”  returned  Seth,  laying  great  stress  on  the 
first  syllable,  and  speaking  with  an  air  of  extreme  inno- 
cence : “it  lies  hereaway,  say  twenty  or  one-and-twenty 
miles — ” 

“ Damn  your  Concords,  and  your  miles,  too  ! ” cried  Pol- 
warth.  “Is  there  a man  in  the  army  who  can  forget  the 
deceitful  place  ? Go  on  with  your  defence,  without  talking  to 
us  of  the  distance,  who  have  measured  the  road  by  inches.” 
“The  captain  is  hasty  and  rash  ! ” said  the  deliberate 
prisoner.  “ But  being  there,  I went  out  of  the  town  with 
some  company  that  I happened  in  with ; and  after  a time, 
we  concluded  to  return  ; and  so,  as  we  came  to  a bridge 
about  a mile  beyond  the  place,  we  received  considerable 
rough  treatment  from  some  of  the  king’s  troops,  who  were 
standing  there — ” 

“What  did  they  ? ” 

“ They  fired  at  us,  and  killed  two  of  our  company,  besides 
other  threatening  doings.  There  were  some  among  us  that 
took  the  matter  up  in  considerable  earnest,  and  there  was  a 
sharp  toss  about  it  for  a few  minutes  ; though  finally  the  law 
prevailed.  ’ ’ 

“The  law!” 

“Certain.  *T  is  ag’in  all  law,  I believe  the  major  will 
own,  to  shoot  peaceable  men  on  the  public  highway  ! ’ ’ 

“ Proceed  with  your  tale  in  your  own  way.” 

“That  is  pretty  much  the  whole  of  it,”  said  Seth,  warily. 
“ The  people  rather  took  that,  and  some  other  things  that 
happened  at  Lexington,  to  heart,  and  I suppose  the  major 
knows  the  rest.  ’ ’ 

“ But  what  has  all  this  to  do  with  your  attempt  to  murder 
me,  you  hypocrite!”  demanded  M’Fuse.  “Confess  the 
whole,  ye  thief,  that  I may  hang  you  with  an  aisy  consci- 
ence.” 

“ Enough,  ” said  Lionel;  “the  man  has  acknowledged 
sufficient  already  to  justify  us  in  transferring  him  to  the 
custody  of  others.  Let  him  be  taken  to  the  main  guard,  and 
delivered  as  a prisoner  of  this  day.” 

“ I hope  the  major  will  look  to  the  things,”  said  Seth* 

IO 


146 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


who  instantly  prepared  to  depart,  but  stopped  on  the  thresh- 
old to  speak.  “ I shall  hold  him  accountable  for  all.” 

“ Your  property  shall  be  protected,  and  I hope  your  life 
may  not  be  in  jeopardy,”  returned  Lionel,  waving  his  hand 
for  those  who  guarded  him  to  proceed.  Seth  turned,  and 
left  his  own  dwelling  with  the  same  quiet  air  which  had 
distinguished  him  throughout  the  day  ; though  there  were 
occasional  flashes  from  his  quick,  dark  eyes,  that  looked  like 
the  glimmerings  of  a fading  fire.  Notwithstanding  the 
threatening  denunciation  he  had  encountered,  he  left  the 
house  with  a perfect  conviction,  that  if  his  case  were  to  be 
tried  by  those  principles  of  justice  which  every  man  in  the 
colony  so  well  understood,  it  would  be  found  that  both  he  and 
his  fellows  had  kept  thoroughly  on  the  windy  side  of  the  law. 

During  this  singular  and  characteristic  discourse,  Pol- 
warth,  with  the  solitary  exception  we  have  recorded,  had 
employed  his  time  in  forwarding  the  preparations  for  the 
banquet. 

As  Seth  and  his  train  disappeared,  Lionel  cast  a furtive 
look  at  Job,  who  was  a quiet  and  apparently  an  undisturbed 
spectator  of  the  scene,  and  then  turned  his  attention  suddenly 
to  his  guests,  as  if  fearful  the  folly  of  the  changeling  might 
betray  his  agency  also  in  the  deeds  of  the  day.  The  sim- 
plicity of  the  lad,  however,  defeated  the  kind  intentions  of 
the  major,  for  he  immediately  observed,  without  the  least 
indication  of  fear, — - 

“ The  king  can’t  hang  Seth  Sage  for  firing  back,  when 
the  rake-helly  soldiers  began  first.” 

“ Perhaps  you  were  out  too,  Master  Solomon,”  cried 
M’Fuse,  “ amusing  yourself  at  Concord,  with  a small  party 
of  select  friends  ? ’ ’ 

“Job  didn’t  go  any  farther  than  Lexington,”  returned 
the  lad  ; “ and  he  has  n’t  got  any  friend,  except  old  Nab.” 

‘ ‘ The  devil  has  possessed  the  minds  of  the  people  ! ’ ’ con- 
tinued the  grenadier.  “Lawyers  and  doctors,  praists  and 
sinners,  old  and  young,  big  and  little,  beset  us  in  our  march, 
and  here  is  a fool  to  be  added  to  the  number  ! I dare  say 
that  fellow,  now,  has  attempted  murder  in  his  day,  too.” 
“Job  scorns  such  wickedness,”  returned  the  unmoved 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


147 


simpleton  ; ‘ ‘ he  only  shot  one  granny,  and  bit  an  officer  in 
the  arm.” 

“ D’  ye  hear  that,  Major  Lincoln  ? ” cried  M’Fuse,  jump- 
ing from  the  seat,  which,  notwithstanding  the  bitterness  of 
his  language,  he  had  hitherto  perseveringly  maintained  ; 
“ d’  ye  hear  that  shell  of  a man,  that  effigy,  boasting  of 
having  killed  a grenadier?  ” 

“Hold!”  interrupted  Lionel,  arresting  his  excited  com- 
panion by  the  arm;  “remember  we  are  soldiers,  and  that 
the  boy  is  not  a responsible  being.  No  tribunal  would  ever 
sentence  such  an  unfortunate  creature  to  a gibbet ; and  in 
general,  he  is  as  harmless  as  a babe — ” 

‘ ‘ The  devil  burn  such  babes  ! A pretty  fellow  is  he  to  kill 
a man  of  six  feet  ! and  with  a ducking  gun,  I ’ll  engage. 
I ’ll  not  hang  the  rascal,  Major  Lincoln,  since  it  is  your  par- 
ticular wish — I ’ll  only  have  him  buried  alive.” 

Job  continued  perfectly  unmoved  in  his  chair  ; and  the 
captain,  ashamed  of  his  resentment  against  such  unconscious 
imbecility,  was  soon  persuaded  to  abandon  his  intentions  of 
revenge,  though  he  continued  muttering  his  threats  against 
the  provincials,  and  his  denunciations  against  such  ‘ ‘ an 
unmanly  spacies  of  warfare,  ’ ’ until  the  much-needed  repast 
was  ended. 

Polwarth,  having  restored  the  equilibrium  of  his  system 
by  a hearty  meal,  hobbled  to  his  bed,  and  M’Fuse,  without 
any  ceremony,  took  possession  of  another  of  the  apartments 
in  the  tenement  of  Mr.  Sage.  The  servants  withdrew  to 
their  own  entertainment ; and  Lionel,  who  had  been  sitting 
for  the  last  half  hour  in  melancholy  silence,  now  unexpect- 
edly found  himself  alone  with  the  changeling.  Job  had 
waited  for  this  moment  with  exceeding  patience  ; but  when 
the  door  closed  on  Meriton,  who  was  the  last  to  retire,  he 
made  a movement  that  indicated  some  communication  of 
more  than  usual  importance,  and  succeeded  in  attracting  the 
attention  of  his  companion. 

“ Foolish  boy  ! ” exclaimed  Lionel,  as  he  met  the  unmean- 
ing eye  of  the  other,  “ did  I not  warn  you  that  wicked  men 
might  endanger  your  life  ? How  was  it  that  I saw  you  in 
arms  to-day  against  the  troops  ? ” 


14^ 


Xfonel  Xtncoln 


“ How  came  the  troops  in  arms  ag’in  Job  ? ” returned  the 
changeling.  “ They  need  n’t  think  to  wheel  about  the  Bay 
province,  clashing  their  godless  drums  and  trumpets,  burn- 
ing housen,  and  shooting  people,  and  find  no  stir  about  it ! ” 
“Do  you  know  that  your  life  has  been  twice  forfeited 
within  twelve  hours,  by  your  own  confession  : once  for  mur- 
der, and  again  for  treason  against  your  king?  You  have 
acknowledged  killing  a man  ! ’ ’ 

“Yes,”  said  the  lad,  with  undisturbed  simplicity,  “Job 
shot  the  granny  ; but  he  didn’t  let  the  people  kill  Major 
Lincoln.” 

“True,  true,”  said  Lionel,  hastily  : “I  owe  my  life  to 
you,  and  that  debt  shall  be  cancelled  at  every  hazard.  But 
why  have  you  put  yourself  into  the  hands  of  your  enemies 
so  thoughtlessly?  What  brings  you  here  to-night?  ” 

“ Ralph  told  me  to  come;  and  if  Ralph  told  Job  to  go 
into  the  king’s  parlor,  he  would  go.” 

“Ralph!”  exclaimed  Lionel,  stopping  in  his  hurried 
walk  across  the  room  ; ‘ ‘ and  where  is  he  ? ” 

“ In  the  old  ware’ us’  ; and  he  has  sent  me  to  tell  you  to 
come  to  him  ; and  what  Ralph  says,  must  be  done.” 

“ He  here  too  ! Is  the  man  crazed  ? Would  not  his  fears 
teach  him — ” 

“ Fears  ! ” interrupted  Job,  with  singular  disdain  ; “ you 
can’t  frighten  Ralph.  The  grannies  couldn’t  frighten  him, 
nor  the  light  infantry  could  n’t  hit  him,  though  he  eat  nothing 
but  their  smoke  the  whole  day.  Ralph  ’s  a proper  warrior  ! ” 
“And  he  waits  me,  you  say,  in  the  tenement  of  your 
mother  ? ’ ’ 

“Job  don’t  know  what  tenement  means,  but  he  ’s  in  the 
old  ware’ us’.” 

“ Come,  then,”  said  Lionel,  taking  his  hat,  “let  us  go  to 
him  : I must  save  him  from  the  effects  of  his  own  rashness, 
though  it  cost  my  commission  ! ’ ’ 

He  left  the  room  while  speaking,  and  the  simpleton  fol- 
lowed close  at  his  heels,  well  content  with  having  executed 
his  mission  without  encountering  any  greater  difficulties. 


CHAPTER  XII. 

“ This  play  is  the  image  of  a murder  done  in  Vienna ! 
Gonzago  is  the  duke’s  name  ; his  wife,  Baptista  : 

You  shall  see,  anon  ; ’tis  a knavish  piece  of  work.” 

Hamlet. 

THE  agitation  and  deep  excitement  produced  by  the 
events  of  the  day  had  not  yet  subsided  in  the 
town,  when  Lionel  found  himself  again  in  its 
narrow  streets.  Men  passed  swiftly  by  him,  as 
if  bent  on  some  unusual  and  earnest  business  ; and  more 
than  once  the  young  soldier  detected  the  triumphant  smiles 
of  the  women,  as  they  looked  curiously  out  on  the  scene, 
from  their  half-open  windows,  and  their  eyes  detected  the 
professional  trappings  of  his  dress.  Strong  bodies  of  the 
troops  were  marching  in  different  directions,  and  in  a 
manner  which  denoted  that  the  guards  were  strengthening, 
while  the  few  solitary  officers  he  met  watched  his  approach- 
ing figure  with  cautious  jealousy,  as  if  they  apprehended  a 
dangerous  enemy  in  every  form  they  encountered. 

The  gates  of  Province  House  were  open,  and,  as  usual, 
guarded  by  armed  men.  As  Lionel  passed  leisurely  along, 
he  perceived  that  the  grenadier  to  whom  he  had  spoken  on 
the  preceding  evening,  again  held  his  watch  before  the  portal 
of  the  governor. 

“ Your  experience  did  not  deceive  you,  my  old  comrade,’ ’ 
said  Lionel,  lingering  a moment  to  address  him  ; “we  have 
had  a warm  day.” 

“So  it  is  reported  in  the  barracks,  your  honor,”  returned 
the  soldier;  “our  company  was  not  ordered  out,  and  we 
are  to  stand  double  duty.  I hope  to  God  the  next  time 

149 


IS° 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


there  is  anything  to  do,  the  grenadiers  of  the  th  may 

not  be  left  behind — it  would  have  been  for  the  credit  of  the 
army  had  they  been  in  the  field  to-day.' ’ 

“Why  do  you  think  so,  my  veteran?  The  men  who 
were  out  are  thought  to  have  behaved  well ; but  it  was 
impossible  to  make  head  against  a multitude  in  arms." 

“It  is  not  my  place,  your  honor,  to  say,  this  man  did 
well,  and  that  man  behaved  amiss,"  returned  the  proud  old 
soldier  ; ■ ‘ but  when  I hear  of  two  thousand  British  troops 
turning  their  backs,  or  quickening  their  march,  before  all 
the  rabble  this  country  can  muster,  I want  the  flank  com- 
panies of  the  th  to  be  at  hand,  if  it  should  be  only  that 

I may  say  I have  witnessed  the  disgraceful  sight  with  my 
own  eyes." 

“There  is  no  disgrace  where  there  is  no  misconduct," 
said  Lionel. 

‘ ‘ There  must  have  been  misconduct  somewhere,  your 
honor,  or  such  a thing  could  not  have  happened  ; consider, 
your  honor,  the  very  flower  of  the  army  ! Something  must 
have  been  wrong  ; and  although  I could  see  the  latter  part 
of  the  business  from  the  hills,  I can  hardly  believe  it  to  be 
true."  As  he  concluded,  he  shook  his  head,  and  continued 
his  steady  pace  along  his  allotted  ground,  as  if  unwilling  to 
pursue  the  humiliating  subject  any  further.  Lionel  passed 
slowly  on,  musing  on  that  deep-rooted  prejudice,  which  had 
even  taught  this  humble  menial  of  the  crown  to  regard  with 
contempt  a whole  nation,  because  they  were  believed  to  be 
dependants. 

The  Dock  Square  was  stiller  than  usual,  and  the  sounds 
of  revelry  which  it  was  usual  to  hear  at  that  hour  from  the 
adjacent  drinking-houses,  were  no  longer  audible.  The 
moon  had  not  yet  risen,  and  Lionel  passed  under  the  dark 
arches  of  the  market  with  a quick  step,  as  he  now  remem- 
bered that  one  in  whom  he  felt  so  deep  an  interest  awaited 
his  appearance.  Job,  who  had  followed  in  silence,  glided 
by  him  on  the  drawbridge,  and  stood  holding  the  door  of 
the  old  building  in  his  hand,  when  he  reached  its  threshold. 
Lionel  found  the  large  space  in  the  centre  of  the  warehouse, 
as  usual,  dark  and  empty,  though  the  dim  light  of  a candle 


Xfonel  Xtncoln 


151 


glimmered  through  the  fissures  in  a partition  which  sepa- 
rated an  apartment  in  one  of  the  little  towers  that  was  occu- 
pied by  Abigail  Pray,  from  the  ruder  parts  of  the  edifice. 
IyOW  voices  were  also  heard  issuing  from  this  room,  and 
Major  Lincoln,  supposing  he  should  find  the  old  man  and 
the  mother  of  Job  in  conference  together,  turned  to  request 
the  lad  would  precede  him,  and  announce  his  name.  But 
the  changeling  had  also  detected  the  whispering  sounds, 
and  it  would  seem  with  a more  cunning  ear,  for  he  turned 
and  darted  through  the  door  of  the  building  with  a velocity 
that  did  not  abate  until  Lionel,  who  watched  his  movements 
with  amazement,  saw  his  shuffling  figure  disappear  among 
the  shambles  of  the  market-place.  Thus  deserted  by  his 
guide,  Lionel  groped  his  way  towards  the  place  where  he 
believed  he  should  find  the  door  which  led  into  the  tower. 
The  light  deceived  him ; for,  as  he  approached  it,  his  eye 
glanced  through  one  of  the  crevices  of  the  w^all,  and  he 
again  became  an  unintentional  witness  of  another  of  those 
interviews,  which  evinced  the  singular  and  mysterious 
affinity  between  the  fortunes  of  the  affluent  and  respected 
Mrs.  Lechmere  and  the  miserable  tenant  of  the  warehouse. 
Until  that  moment,  the  hurry  of  events  and  the  crowd  of 
reflections  which  had  rushed  over  the  mind  of  the  young 
man,  throughout  the  busy  time  of  the  last  twenty-four 
hours,  had  prevented  his  recalling  the  hidden  meaning  of 
the  singular  discourse  of  which  he  had  already  been  an 
auditor.  But  now,  when  he  found  his  aunt  led  into  these 
haunts  of  beggary,  by  a feeling  he  was  not  weak  enough 
to  attribute  to  her  charity,  he  stood  rooted  to  the  spot  by  a 
curiosity  which,  at  the  same  time  that  he  found  it  irresisti- 
ble, he  was  willing  to  excuse,  under  a strong  impression 
that  these  private  communications  were  in  some  way  con- 
nected with  himself. 

Mrs.  Lechmere  had  evidently  muffled  her  person  in  a 
manner  that  was  intended  to  conceal  this  mysterious  visit 
from  any  casual  observer  of  her  movements  ; but  the  hoops 
of  her  large  calash  were  now  so  far  raised  as  to  admit  a 
distinct  view  of  her  withered  features,  and  of  the  hard  eye 
which  shot  forth  its  selfish,  worldly  glances,  from  amid  the 


i52 


Xfonel  OLlncoIn 


surrounding  decay  of  nature.  She  was  seated,  both  in  in- 
dulgence to  her  infirmities,  and  from  that  assumption  of 
superiority  she  never  neglected  in  the  presence  of  her  inferi- 
ors, while  her  companion  stood  before  her,  in  an  attitude 
that  partook  more  of  restraint  than  of  respect. 

“ Your  weakness,  foolish  woman,”  said  Mrs.  Lechmere, 
in  those  stern,  repulsive  tones  she  so  well  knew  how  to 
use,  when  she  wished  to  intimidate,  “will  yet  prove  your 
ruin.  You  owe  it  to  respect  for  yourself,  to  your  character, 
and  even  to  your  safety,  that  you  should  exhibit  more 
firmness,  and  show  yourself  above  this  weak  and  idle 
superstition.’' 

‘ ‘ My  ruin  ! and  my  character  ! ’ ’ returned  Abigail,  look- 
ing about  her  with  a haggard  eye  and  a trembling  lip  ; 
“what  is  ruin,  Madam  L,echmere,  if  this  poverty  be  not 
called  so  ? or  what  loss  of  character  can  bring  upon  me 
more  biting  scorn  than  I am  now  ordained  to  suffer  for  my 
sins  ? ’ ’ 

“Perhaps,”  said  Mrs.  Techmere,  endeavoring  to  affect  a 
kinder  tone,  though  dislike  was  still  too  evident  in  her 
manner,  “in  the  hurry  of  my  grand-nephew’s  reception,  I 
have  forgotten  my  usual  liberality.” 

The  woman  took  the  piece  of  silver  which  Mrs.  Techmere 
slowly  placed  in  her  hand,  and  held  it  in  her  open  palm  for 
several  moments,  regarding  it  with  a vacant  look,  which  the 
other  mistook  for  dissatisfaction. 

‘ ‘ The  troubles,  and  the  decreasing  value  of  property, 
have  sensibly  affected  my  income,”  continued  the  richly 
clad  and  luxurious  Mrs.  Techmere  ; “but  if  that  should  be 
too  little  for  your  immediate  wants,  I will  add  to  it  another 
crown.” 

“ ’Twill  do — ’twill  do,”  said  Abigail,  clenching  her  hand 
over  the  money,  with  a grasp  that  was  convulsive;  “yes, 
yes,  ’twill  do.  O,  Madam  Techmere,  humbling  and  sinful 
as  that  wicked  passion  is,  would  to  God  that  no  motive 
worse  than  avarice  had  proved  my  ruin  ! ’ ’ 

Tionel  thought  his  aunt  cast  an  uneasy  and  embarrassed 
glance  at  her  companion,  which  he  construed  into  an  ex- 
pression that  betrayed  there  were  secrets  even  between 


%ionc I Xtncoln 


*53 


these  strange  confidants ; but  the  momentary  surprise  ex- 
hibited in  her  features  soon  gave  place  to  her  habitual  look 
of  guarded  and  severe  formality  ; and  she  replied,  with  an 
air  of  coldness,  as  if  she  would  repulse  any  approach  to  an 
acknowledgment  of  their  common  transgression, — 

“The  woman  talks  like  one  who  is  beside  herself!  Of 
what  crime  has  she  been  guilty,  but  such  as  those  to  which 
our  nature  is  liable  ! ’ ’ 

“True,  true,”  said  Abigail  Pray,  with  a half-stifled,  hys- 
terical laugh,  “ ’t  is  our  guilty,  guilt}^  nature,  as  you  say. 
But  I grow  nervous,  I believe,  as  I grow  old  and  feeble, 
Madam  Eechmere ; and  I often  forget  myself.  The  sight 
of  the  grave,  so  very  near,  is  apt  to  bring  thoughts  of  re- 
pentance to  such  as  are  more  hardened  even  than  I.” 

“Foolish  girl!”  said  Mrs.  Eechmere,  endeavoring  to 
screen  her  pallid  features,  by  drawing  down  her  calash,  with 
a hand  that  trembled  more  writh  terror  than  with  age  ; 
“why  should  you  speak  thus  freely  of  death,  who  are  but 
a child  ? ’ ’ 

Lionel  heard  the  faltering,  husky  tones  of  his  aunt,  as 
they  appeared  to  die  in  her  throat,  but  nothing  more  was 
distinctly  audible,  until,  after  a long  pause,  she  raised  her 
face,  and  looked  about  her  again  with  her  severe,  unbending 
eye,  and  continued, — 

‘ ‘ Enough  of  this  folly,  Abigail  Pray — I have  come  to 
learn  more  of  your  strange  inmate.” 

“O!  ’ t is  not  enough,  Madam  Ecchmere,”  interrupted 
the  conscience-stricken  woman  ; “we  have  so  little  time  left 
us  for  penitence  and  prayer,  that  there  never  can  be  enough, 
I fear,  to  answer  our  mighty  transgressions.  Eet  us  speak 
of  the  grave,  Madam  Lechmere,  while  we  can  yet  do  it  on 
this  side  of  eternity.” 

“Ay!  speak  of  the  grave,  while  out  of  its  damp  clois- 
ters ; ’t is  the  home  of  the  aged,”  said  a third  voice,  whose 
hollow  tones  might  well  have  issued  from  some  tomb,  ‘ ‘ and 
I am  here  to  join  in  the  wholesome  theme.” 

“Who — who — in  the  name  of  God,  who  art  thou?”  ex- 
claimed Mrs.  Eechmere,  forgetting  her  infirmities,  and  her 
secret  compunctions  in  new  emotions,  and  rising  involum 


*54 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


tarily  from  her  seat;  “tell  me,  I conjure  thee,  who  thou 
art?  ” 

“ One,  aged  like  thyself,  Priscilla  Lechmere,  and  standing 
on  the  threshold  of  that  final  home  of  which  you  would 
discourse.  Speak  on,  then,  ye  widowed  women ; for  if 
ever  ye  have  done  aught  that  calls  for  forgiveness,  ’tis  in 
the  grave  ye  shall  find  the  heavenly  gift  of  mercy  offered 
to  your  unworthiness.  ’ ’ 

By  changing  the  position  of  his  body  a little,  Lionel  was 
now  enabled  to  command  a view  of  the  whole  apartment. 
In  the  doorway  stood  Ralph,  immovable  in  his  attitude,  with 
one  hand  raised  high  towards  heaven,  and  the  other  point- 
ing impressively  downward,  as  if  about  to  lay  bare  the 
secrets  of  that  tomb,  of  which  his  wasted  limbs,  and  faded 
lineaments,  marked  him  as  a fit  tenant,  while  his  searching 
eyeballs  glared  about  him,  from  the  face  of  one  to  the  other, 
with  that  look  of  quickness  and  penetration,  that  Abigail 
Pray  had  so  well  described  as  “ scorching.’ ’ Within  a few 
feet  of  the  old  man,  Mrs.  Lechmere  remained  standing, 
rigid  and  motionless  as  marble,  her  calash  fallen  back,  and 
her  death-like  features  exposed,  with  horror  and  astonish- 
ment rooted  in  every  muscle,  as,  with  open  mouth,  and  eyes 
riveted  on  the  intruder,  she  gazed  as  steadily  as  if  placed  in 
that  posture  by  the  chisel  of  the  statuary.  Abigail  shaded 
her  eyes  with  her  hand,  and  buried  her  face  in  the  folds  of 
her  garments,  while  strong  convulsive  shudderings  ran 
through  her  frame,  and  betrayed  the  extent  of  the  emotions 
she  endeavored  to  conceal.  Amazed  at  what  he  had  wit- 
nessed, and  concerned  for  the  apparent  insensibility  of  his 
aunt,  whose  great  age  rendered  such  scenes  dangerous, 
Lionel  was  about  to  rush  into  the  apartment,  when  Mrs. 
Lechmere  so  far  recovered  her  faculties  as  to  speak,  and  the 
young  man  lost  every  consideration  in  a burning  curiosity, 
which  was  powerfully  justified  by  his  situation. 

‘ ‘ Who  is  it  that  calls  me  by  the  name  of  Priscilla  ? ’ ’ said 
Mrs.  Lechmere;  “none  now  live  who  can  claim  to  be  so 
familiar.” 

“ Priscilla — Priscilla,”  repeated  the  old  man,  looking  about 
him,  as  if  he  would  require  the  presence  of  another ; “ it  is 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


X55 


a soft  and  pleasant  sound  to  my  ears,  and  there  is  one  that 
owns  it  besides  thee,  as  thou  knowest. ’ 9 

‘ ‘ She  is  dead  ; years  have  gone  by  since  I saw  her  in  her 
coffin ; and  I would  forget  her,  and  all  like  her,  who  have 
proved  unworthy  of  my  blood.’ ’ 

“ She  is  not  dead  ! ” shouted  the  old  man,  in  a voice  that 
rung  through  the  naked  rafters  of  the  edifice  like  the  un- 
earthly tones  of  some  spirit  of  the  air  ; ‘ ‘ she  lives — she 
lives  ! ay,  she  yet  lives  ! ’ ’ 

“ hives  ! ” repeated  Mrs.  hechmere,  recoiling  a step  before 
the  forward  movement  of  the  other  ; ‘ ‘ why  am  I so  weak  as 
to  listen  ! ’ t is  impossible.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ hives  ! ’ ’ exclaimed  Abigail  Pray,  clasping  her  hands 
with  agony.  “ O ! would  to  God  she  did  live  ! but  did  I 
not  see  her  a bloated,  disfigured  corpse?  did  I not  with 
these  very  hands  place  the  grave-clothes  about  her  once 
lovely  frame  ? O ! no — she  is  dead — dead — and  I am  a — ” 
“’Tis  some  madman  that  asserts  these  idle  tales,”  ex- 
claimed Mrs.  heclimere,  with  a quickness  that  interrupted 
the  criminal  epithet  the  other  was  about  to  apply  to  herself. 
“ The  unfortunate  girl  is  long  since  dead,  as  we  know  ; why 
should  we  reason  with  a maniac  ? ’ ’ 

“ Maniac!”  repeated  Ralph,  with  an  expression  of  the 
most  taunting  irony  ; ‘ ‘ no — no — no — such  an  one  there  is, 
as  you  and  I well  know,  but  ’ t is  not  I who  am  mad — 
thou  art  rather  crazed  thyself,  woman  ; thou  hast  made  one 
maniac  already,  wouldst  thou  make  another?  ” 

”1!”  said  Mrs.  Lechmere,  without  quailing  before  the 
ardent  look  she  encountered  ; 4 ‘ that  God  who  bestows  rea- 
son, recalls  his  gift  at  will ; ’ t is  not  I who  exercise  such 
power.” 

“How  sayest  thou,  Priscilla  Lechmere?”  cried  Ralph, 
stepping  with  an  inaudible  tread  so  nigh  as  to  grasp,  unper- 
ceived, her  motionless  arm  with  his  own  wasted  fingers  ; 
“yes — I will  call  thee  Priscilla,  little  as  thou  deservest  such 
a holy  name;  dost  thou  deny  the  power  to  craze?  where, 
then,  is  the  head  of  thy  boasted  race  ? the  proud  baronet  of 
Devonshire,  the  wealthy,  and  respected,  and  once  happy 
companion  of  princes — thy  nephew,  Lionel  Lincoln  ? Is  he 


156 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


in  the  halls  of  his  fathers  ? — leading  the  armies  of  his  king  ? 
— ruling  and  protecting  his  household  ? or  is  he  the  tenant  of 
a gloomy  cell  ? thou  knowest  he  is — thou  knowest  he  is — 
and,  woman,  thy  vile  machinations  have  placed  him  there  ! ” 
‘ ‘ Who  is  it  that  dare  thus  speak  to  me  ? ’ ’ demanded 
Mrs.  Lechmere,  rallying  her  faculties  with  a mighty  effort, 
to  look  down  this  charge;  “if  my  unhappy  nephew  is 
indeed  known  to  thee,  th}^  own  knowledge  will  refute  this 
base  accusation — ” 

* ‘ Known  to  me  ! I would  ask  what  is  hid  from  me  ? I 
have  looked  at  thee,  and  observed  thy  conduct,  woman,  for 
the  life  of  man  ; and  nothing  that  thou  hast  done  is  hid 
from  me.  I tell  thee,  I know  all.  Of  this  sinful  woman 
here,  also,  I know  all.  Have  I not  told  thee,  Abigail  Pray, 
of  thy  most  secret  transgressions  ? ’ ’ 

“ O ! yes — yes;  he  is  indeed  acquainted  with  what  I 
had  thought  was  now  concealed  from  every  eye  but  that  of 
God  ! ” cried  Abigail,  with  superstitious  terror. 

“Nor  of  thee  am  I ignorant,  thou  miserable  widow  of 
John  Iyechmere  ; and  of  Priscilla,  too,  do  I not  know  all?” 
“ All  ! ” again  exclaimed  Abigail. 

‘ ‘ All  ! ’ ’ repeated  Mrs.  Iyechmere,  in  a voice  barely 
audible ; when  she  sunk  back  in  her  chair,  in  a state  of 
total  insensibility.  The  breathless  interest  he  felt  in  all 
that  had  passed,  could  detain  Lionel  no  longer  from  rush- 
ing to  the  assistance  of  his  aunt.  Abigail  Pray,  who,  it 
would  seem,  had  been  in  some  measure  accustomed  to  such 
scenes  with  her  lodger,  retained,  however,  sufficient  self- 
command  to  anticipate  his  motions ; and,  when  he  had 
gained  the  door,  he  found  her  already  supporting,  and 
making  the  usual  applications  to  Mrs.  Lechmere.  It  be- 
came necessary  to  divest  the  sufferer  of  part  of  her  attire, 
and  Abigail,  assuring  Lionel  of  her  perfect  competency  to 
act  by  herself,  requested  him  to  withdraw,  not  only  on  that 
account,  but  because  she  felt  assured  that  nothing  could 
prove  more  dangerous  to  her  reviving  patient,  than  his 
unexpected  presence.  After  lingering  a moment,  until  he 
witnessed  the  signs  of  returning  life,  Lionel  complied  with 
the  earnest  entreaties  of  the  woman ; and,  leaving  the 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


iS7 


room,  he  groped  his  way  to  the  foot  of  the  ladder,  with  a 
determination  to  ascend  to  the  apartment  of  Ralph,  in  order 
to  demand  at  once  explanation  of  what  he  had  just  seen 
and  heard.  He  found  the  old  man  seated  in  his  little 
tower,  his  hand  shading  his  eyes  from  the  feeble  light  of 
the  miserable  candle,  and  his  head  drooping  upon  his 
bosom,  like  one  in  pensive  musing.  Lionel  approached  him, 
without  appearing  to  attract  his  attention,  and  was  com- 
pelled to  speak,  in  order  to  announce  his  presence. 

“ I have  received  your  summons,  by  Job,”  he  said,  “ and 
have  obeyed  it.” 

“ ’T  is  well,”  returned  Ralph. 

“ Perhaps  I should  add,  that  I have  been  an  astonished 
witness  of  your  interview  with  Mrs.  Lechtnere,  and  have 
heard  the  bold  and  unaccountable  language  you  have  seen 
proper  to  use  to  that  lady.” 

The  old  man  now  raised  his  head,  and  Lionel  saw  the 
bright  rays  from  his  eyes  quicken,  as  he  answered, — 

“ You  then  heard  the  truth,  and  witnessed  its  effects  on  a 
guilty  conscience.  ’ ’ 

“ I also  heard  what  you  call  the  truth,  in  connection,  as 
you  know,  with  the  names  most  dear  to  me.” 

“Art  certain  of  it,  boy?”  returned  Ralph,  looking  the 
other  steadily  in  the  face  ; ‘ ‘ has  no  other  become  dearer  to 
you,  of  late,  than  the  authors  of  your  being?  Speak,  and 
remember  that  you  answer  one  of  no  common  knowledge.” 

‘ ‘ What  mean  you,  sir  ? is  it  nature  to  love  any  as  we  do 
a parent  ? ’ ’ 

“Away  with  this  childish  simplicity,”  continued  the 
other  sternly ; ‘ ‘ the  grandchild  of  that  wretched  woman 
below — do  you  not  love  her,  and  can  I put  trust  in  thee  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ What  trust  is  there  incompatible  with  affection  for  a 
being  so  pure  as  Cecil  Dynevor  ? ’ ’ 

“Ay,”  murmured  the  old  man  in  an  undertone,  “her 
mother  was  pure,  and  why  may  not  the  child  be  worthy  of 
its  parentage  ? ” He  paused,  and  along,  and,  on  the  part 
of  Lionel,  a painful  and  embarrassing  silence  succeeded, 
which  was  at  length  broken  by  Ralph,  who  said,  abruptly, — • 
“ You  were  in  the  field  to-day,  Major  Lincoln.” 


Xtcnei  Xntcoln 


iS» 


“ Of  that  you  must  be  certain,  as  I owe  my  life  to  your 
kind  interposition.  But  why  have  you  braved  the  danger 
of  an  arrest,  by  trusting  your  person  in  the  power  of  the 
troops?  Your  presence  and  activity  among  the  Americans 
must  be  known  to  many  in  the  army  besides  myself.” 

‘ ‘ And  would  they  think  of  searching  for  their  enemies 
within  the  streets  of  Boston,  when  the  hills  without  are  fill- 
ing with  armed  men  ? My  residence  in  this  building  is 
known  only  to  the  woman  below,  who  dare  not  betray  me, 
her  worthy  son,  and  to  you.  My  movements  are  secret  and 
sudden,  when  men  least  expect  them.  Danger  cannot  touch 
such  as  I.  ” 

“But,”  said  Lionel,  hesitating  with  embarrassment, 
‘ ‘ ought  I to  conceal  the  presence  of  one  whom  I know  to 
be  inimical  to  my  king  ? ’ ’ 

“ Lionel  Lincoln,  you  overrate  your  courage,”  interrupted 
Ralph,  smiling  in  scorn.  “You  dare  not  shed  the  blood  of 
him  who  has  spared  your  own.  But  enough  of  this : we 
understand  each  other,  and  one  old  as  I should  be  a stranger 
to  fear.” 

“ No,  no,”  saida  low  solemn  voice,  from  a dark  comer  of 
the  apartment,  where  Job  had  stolen  unseen,  and  was  now 
nestled  in  security  : “you  can’t  frighten  Ralph.” 

“ The  boy  is  a worthy  boy,  and  he  knows  good  from  evil  ; 
what  more  is  necessary  to  man  in  this  wicked  world  ? ’ ’ mut- 
tered Ralph,  in  those  quick  and  indistinct  tones  that  charac- 
terized his  manner. 

“Whence  came  you,  fellow,  and  why  did  you  abandon 
me  so  abruptly?  ” demanded  Lionel. 

“ Job  has  just  been  into  market,  to  see  if  he  could  n’t 
find  something  that  might  be  good  for  Nab,”  returned 
the  lad. 

“ Think  not  to  impose  on  me  with  this  nonsense  ! Is  food 
to  be  purchased  at  any  hour  of  the  night,  though  you  had 
the  means  ? ’ ’ 

“Now  that  is  convincing  the  king’s  officers  don’t  know 
everything,”  said  the  simpleton,  laughing  within  himself. 
“ Here  ’s  as  good  a pound-bill,  old  tenor,  as  was  ever  granted 
by  the  Bay  colony ; and  meat ’s  no  such  rarity,  that  a man,  who 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


iS9 


has  a pound-bill,  old  tenor,  in  his  pocket,  can’t  go  under  old 
Funnel  when  he  pleases,  for  all  their  acts  of  Parliament.  ’ ’ 

“ You  have  plundered  the  dead  ! ” cried  Lionel,  observing 
that  Job  exhibited  in  his  hand  several  pieces  of  silver,  besides 
the  note  he  had  mentioned. 

“ Don’t  call  Job  a thief ! ” said  the  lad,  with  a threatening 
air  : “ there  ’s  law  in  the  Bay  yet,  though  people  don’t  use 
it ; and  right  will  be  done  to  all,  when  the  time  comes. 
Job  shot  a granny,  but  he ’s  no  thief.” 

“You  were  then  paid  for  your  secret  errand,  last  night, 
foolish  boy,  and  have  been  tempted  to  run  into  danger  by 
money.  L,et  it  be  the  last  time.  In  future,  when  you  want, 
come  to  me  for  assistance.” 

“Job  won’t  go  of  arr’nds  for  the  king,  if  he  ’d  give  him 
his  golden  crown,  with  all  its  di’monds  and  flauntiness, 
unless  Job  pleases,  for  there ’s  no  law  for  it.” 

Dionel,  with  a view  to  appease  the  irritated  lad,  now 
made  a few  kind  and  conciliating  remarks,  but  the  change* 
ling  did  not  deign  to  reply,  falling  back  in  his  corner  in  a 
sullen  manner,  as  if  he  would  repair  the  fatigue  of  the  day 
by  a few  moments  of  sleep.  In  the  meantime,  Ralph  had 
sunk  into  a profound  revery,  when  the  young  soldier 
remembered  that  the  hour  was  late,  and  he  had  yet  obtained 
no  explanation  of  the  mysterious  charges.  He  therefore 
alluded  to  the  subject  in  a manner  which  he  thought  best 
adapted  to  obtain  the  desired  intelligence.  The  instant 
Lionel  mentioned  the  agitation  of  his  aunt,  his  companion 
raised  his  head  again,  and  a smile  like  that  of  fierce  exulta- 
tion lighted  the  wan  face  of  the  old  man,  who  answered, 
pointing  with  an  emphatic  gesture  to  his  own  bosom, — 
“’Twas  here,  boy — ’twas  here.  Nothing  short  of  the 
power  of  conscience,  and  a knowledge  like  that  of  mine, 
could  strike  that  woman  speechless  in  the  presence  of  any- 
thing human.” 

‘ ‘ But  what  is  this  extraordinary  knowledge  ? I am  in 
some  degree  the  natural  protector  of  Mrs.  L,echmere  ; and, 
independent  of  my  individual  interest  in  your  secret,  have  a 
right,  in  her  behalf,  to  require  an  explanation  of  such  seri- 
ous allegations.” 


i6o 


Xionel  Lincoln 


“ In  her  behalf  ! ” repeated  Ralph.  “ Wait,  impetuous 
young  man,  until  she  bids  you  push  the  inquiry  : it  shall 
then  be  answered,  in  a voice  of  thunder.” 

“If  not  in  justice  to  my  aged  aunt,  at  least  remember 
your  repeated  promises  to  unfold  that  sad  tale  of  my  own 
domestic  sorrows,  of  which  you  claim  to  be  the  master.” 

“Ay,  of  that,  and  much  more,  am  I in  possession,”  re- 
turned the  old  man,  smiling,  as  if  conscious  of  his  knowledge 
and  power.  “ If  you  doubt  it,  descend  and  ask  the  miser- 
able tenant  of  this  warehouse,  or  the  guilty  widow  of  John 
I.cclimere. ' ’ 

“ Nay,  I doubt  nothing  but  my  own  patience  ; the  mo- 
ments fly  swiftly,  and  I have  yet  to  learn  all  I wish  to 
know.” 

“ This  is  neither  the  time,  nor  is  it  the  place  where  you  are 
to  hear  the  tale,”  returned  Ralph.  “ I have  already  said 
that  we  shall  meet  beyond  the  colleges  for  that  purpose. 

“ But  after  the  events  of  this  day,  who  can  tell  when  it 
will  be  in  the  power  of  an  officer  of  the  crown  to  visit  the 

colleges  in  safety  ? ” . 

“What  ! ” cried  the  old  man,  laughing  aloud,  in  the  bit- 
terness of  his  scorn,  “ has  the  boy  found  the  strength  and 
the  will  of  the  despised  colonists  so  soon  ! But  I pledge 
to  thee  my  word,  that  thou  shalt  yet  see  the  place,  and  in 
safety.  Yes,  yes,  Priscilla  Lechmere,  thy  hour  is  at  hand, 
and  thy  doom  is  sealed  forever  ! ’ ’ 

Lionel  again  mentioned  his  aunt,  and  alluded  to  the 
necessity  of  his  soon  rejoining  her,  as  he  already  heard 
footsteps  below,  which  indicated  that  preparations  were  mak-  i 
ing  for  her  departure.  But  his  petitions  and  remonstrances 
were  now  totally  unheeded  : his  aged  companion  was  pacing 
swiftly  up  and  down  his  small  apartment,  muttering  inco- 
herent sentences,  in  which  the  name  of  Priscilla  was  alone 
audible,  and  his  countenance  betraying  the  inward  workings 
of  absorbing  and  fierce  passions.  In  a few  moments  more, 
the  shrill  voice  of  Abigail  was  heard  calling  upon  her  son, 
in  a manner  which  plainly  denoted  her  knowledge  that  the 
changeling  was  concealed  somewhere  about  the  building. 
Job  heard  her  calls  repeated,  until  the  tones  of  her  voice 


^Lionel  Xmcoln 


161 


became  angry  and  threatening,  when  he  stole  slowly  from 
his  corner,  and  moved  towards  the  ladder,  with  a sunken 
brow  and  lingering  steps.  Lionel  now  knew  not  how  to  act. 
His  aunt  was  still  ignorant  of  his  presence,  and  he  thought 
if  Abigail  Pray  had  wished  him  to  appear,  he  would  in  some 
manner  be  soon  included  in  the  summons.  He  had  also  his 
own  secret  reasons  for  wishing  his  visits  to  Ralph  unknown. 
Accordingly  he  determined  to  watch  the  movements  below, 
under  the  favor  of  the  darkness,  and  to  be  governed  entirely 
by  circumstances.  He  took  no  leave  of  his  companion  on 
departing,  for  long  use  had  so  far  accustomed  him  to  the 
eccentric  manner  of  the  old  man,  that  he  well  knew  any 
attempt  to  divert  his  attention  from  his  burning  thoughts 
would  be  futile  at  a moment  of  such  intense  excitement. 

From  the  head  of  the  ladder,  where  Lionel  took  his 
stand,  he  saw  Mrs.  Fechmere,  preceded  by  Job  with  a lan- 
tern, walking,  with  a firmer  step  than  he  could  have  hoped 
for,  towards  the  door,  and  he  overheard  Abigail  cautioning 
her  wilful  son  to  light  her  visitor  to  a neighboring  corner, 
where  it  appeared  a conveyance  was  in  waiting.  On  the 
threshold,  his  aunt  turned,  and,  the  light  from  the  candle  of 
Abigail  falling  on  her  features,  Fional  caught  a full  view 
of  her  cold,  hard  eye,  which  had  regained  all  its  worldly 
expression,  though  softened  a little  by  a deeper  shade  of 
thought  than  usual. 

‘ ‘ Fet  the  scene  of  to-night  be  forgotten,  my  good  Abi- 
gail,” she  said.  “Your  lodger  is  a nameless  being,  who  has 
gleaned  some  idle  tale,  and  wishes  to  practise  on  our  cre- 
dulity to  enrich  himself.  I will  consider  more  of  it ; but  on 
no  account  do  you  hold  any  further  communion  with  him. 
I must  remove  you,  my  trusty  woman  ; this  habitation  is 
unworthy  of  you,  and  of  your  dutiful  son,  too.  I must  see 
you  better  lodged,  my  good  Abigail — indeed  I must.” 

Fionel  could  distinguish  the  slight  shudder  that  passed 
through  the  frame  of  her  companion,  as  she  alluded  to  the 
doubtful  character  of  Ralph  ; but,  without  answering,  Abi- 
gail held  the  door  open  for  the  departure  of  her  guest.  The 
instant  Mrs.  Fechmere  disappeared,  Fionel  glided  down  the 
ladder,  and  stood  before  the  astonished  woman. 

ii 


162 


%ioncl  Lincoln 


“ When  I tell  you  I have  heard  all  that  passed  to-night/ * 
he  abruptly  said,  “ you  will  see  the  folly  of  any  further  at- 
tempt at  concealment.  I now  demand  so  much  of  your 
secret  as  affects  the  happiness  of  me  or  mine.” 

“No — no — not  of  me,  Major  Lincoln,”  said  the  terri- 
fied female  ; “ not  of  me,  for  the  love  of  God,  not  of  me  : I 
have  sworn  to  keep  it,  and  one  oath” — Her  emotions 
choked  her,  and  her  voice  became  indistinct. 

Lionel  regretted  his  vehemence,  and,  ashamed  to  extort  a 
confession  from  a woman,  he  attempted  to  pacify  her  feelings, 
promising  to  require  no  further  communication  at  that  time. 

“Go — go,”  she  said,  motioning  him  to  depart,  “and  I 
shall  be  well  again.  Leave  me,  and  then  I shall  be  alone 
with  that  terrible  old  man,  and  my  God  ! ” 

Perceiving  her  earnestness,  he  reluctantly  complied,  and, 
meeting  Job  on  the  threshold,  he  ceased  to  feel  any  further 
uneasiness  for  her  safety. 

During  his  rapid  walk  to  Tremont  Street,  Major  Lincoln 
thought  intently  on  all  he  had  heard  and  witnessed.  He 
remembered  the  communications  by  which  Ralph  had  at- 
tained such  a powerful  interest  in  his  feelings,  and  he  fan- 
cied he  could  discover  a pledge  of  the  truth  of  the  old  man’s 
knowledge  in  the  guilt  betrayed  by  the  manner  of  his  aunt. 
From  Mrs.  Lechmere  his  thoughts  recurred  to  her  lovely 
grandchild,  and  for  a moment  he  was  perplexed,  by  en- 
deavoring to  explain  her  contradictory  deportment  towards 
himself : at  one  time  she  was  warm,  frank,  and  even  affec- 
tionate ; and  at  another,  as  in  the  short  and  private  interview 
of  that  very  evening,  cold,  constrained,  and  repulsive.  Then, 
again,  he  recollected  the  object  which  had  chiefly  induced 
him  to  follow  his  regiment  to  his  native  country  ; and  the 
recollection  was  attended  by  that  shade  of  dejection  which 
such  reflections  never  failed  to  cast  across  his  intelligent  fea- 
tures. On  reaching  the  house,  he  ascertained  the  safe  re- 
turn of  Mrs.  Lechmere,  who  had  already  retired  to  her  room, 
attended  by  her  lovely  relatives.  Lionel  immediately  fol- 
lowed their  example ; and  as  the  excitement  of  that  memo- 
rable and  busy  day  subsided,  it  was  succeeded  by  a deep  sleep, 
that  fell  on  his  senses  like  the  forgetfulness  of  the  dead. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


“ Now  let  it  work  : Mischief,  thou  art  afoot : 

Take  then  what  course  thou  wilt ! ” 

Shakespeare. 

THE  alarm  of  the  inroad  passed  .swiftly  by  the  low 
shores  of  the  Atlantic,  and  was  heard  echoing 
among  the  rugged  mountains  west  of  the  rivers, 
as  if  borne  along  on  a whirlwind.  The  male  pop- 
ulation, between  the  rolling  waters  of  Massachusetts  Bay 
and  the  limpid  stream  of  the  Connecticut,  rose  as  one  man  ; 
and  as  the  cry  of  blood  was  sounded  far  inland,  the  hills  and 
valleys,  the  highways  and  footpaths,  were  seen  covered  with 
bands  of  armed  husbandmen,  pressing  eagerly  towards  the 
scene  of  the  war.  Within  eight-and-forty  hours  after  the 
fatal  meeting  at  Eexington,  it  was  calculated  that  more  than 
a hundred  thousand  men  were  in  arms  ; and  near  one  fourth 
of  that  number  was  gathered  before  the  peninsulas  of  Boston 
and  Charlestown.  They  who  were  precluded  by  distance 
and  a want  of  military  provisions,  to  support  such  a con- 
course, from  participating  in  the  more  immediate  contest, 
lay  by  in  expectation  of  the  arrival  of  that  moment  when 
their  zeal  might  also  be  put  to  severer  trials.  In  short,  the 
sullen  quietude  in  which  the  colonies  had  been  slumbering 
for  a year,  was  suddenly  and  rudely  broken  by  the  events 
of  that  day ; and  the  patriotic  among  the  people  rose  with 
such  a cry  of  indignation  on  their  lips,  that  the  disaffected, 
who  were  no  insignificant  class  in  the  more  southern  prov- 
inces, were  compelled  to  silence,  until  the  first  burst  of  revo- 
lutionary excitement  had  an  opportunity  to  subside,  under 
the  never  failing  influence  of  time  and  suffering, 

163 


164 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


Gage,  secure  in  his  position,  and  supported  by  a con- 
stantly increasing  power,  as  well  as  the  presence  of  a formi- 
dable fleet,  looked  on  the  gathering  storm  with  a steady 
eye,  and  with  that  calmness  which  distinguished  the  mild 
benevolence  of  his  private  character.  Though  the  attitude 
and  the  intentions  of  the  Americans  could  no  longer  be  mis- 
taken, he  listened  with  reluctant  ears  to  the  revengeful  ad- 
vice of  his  counsellors,  and  rather  strove  to  appease  the 
tumult  than  to  attempt  crushing  it  by  a force  which,  though 
a month  before  it  had  been  thought  equal  to  the  united 
power  of  the  peaceful  colonists,  he  now  prudently  deemed 
no  more  than  competent  to  protect  itself  within  its  watery 
boundaries.  Proclamations  were,  however,  fulminated 
against  the  rebels  ; and  such  other  measures  as  were  thought 
indispensable  to  assert  the  dignity  and  authority  of  the 
crown,  were  promptly  adopted.  Of  course,  these  harmless 
denunciations  were  disregarded,  and  all  his  exhortations  to 
return  to  an  allegiance,  which  the  people  still  denied  had 
ever  been  impaired,  were  lost  amid  the  din  of  arms,  and  the 
popular  cries  of  the  time.  These  appeals  of  the  British 
general,  as  well  as  sundry  others  made  by  the  royal  govern- 
ors, who  yet  held  their  rule  throughout  all  the  provinces, 
except  the  one  in  which  the  scene  of  our  tale  is  laid,  were 
answered  by  the  people  in  humble  but  manly  petitions  to 
the  throne  for  justice ; and  in  loud  remonstrances  to  the  Par- 
liament, requiring  to  be  restored  to  the  possession  of  those 
rights  and  immunities  which  should  be  secured  to  all  who  en-  - 
joyed  the  protection  of  their  common  constitution.  Still  the 
power  and  prerogatives  of  the  prince  were  deeply  respected, 
and  were  alluded  to  in  all  public  documents,  with  the  venera- 
tion which  was  thought  due  to  the  sacredness  of  his  character 
and  station.  But  that  biting,  though  grave  sarcasm,  which 
the  colonists  knew  so  well  how  to  use,  was  freely  expended 
on  his  ministers,  who  were  accused  of  devising  the  measures 
so  destructive  to  the  peace  of  the  empire.  In  this  manner 
passed  some  weeks  after  the  series  of  skirmishes  which  were 
called  the  battle  of  Lexington,  from  the  circumstance  of  com- 
mencing at  the  hamlet  of  that  name,  both  parties  continuing 
to  prepare  for  a mightier  exhibition  of  their  power  and  daring. 


Xionel  Lincoln 


l6s 

Lionel  had  by  no  means  been  an  unconcerned  spectator 
of  these  preparations.  The  morning  after  the  return  of  the 
detachment,  he  applied  for  a command,  equal  to  his  just  ex- 
pectations. But  while  he  was  complimented  on  the  spirit 
and  loyalty  he  had  manifested  on  the  late  occasion,  it  was 
intimated  to  the  young  man  that  he  might  be  of  more  ser- 
vice to  the  cause  of  his  prince,  by  devoting  his  time  to  the 
cultivation  of  his  interest  among  those  powerful  colonists 
with  whom  his  family  was  allied  by  blood,  or  connected  by 
long  and  close  intimacies.  It  was  even  submitted  to  his 
own  judgment  whether  it  would  not  be  well,  at  some  auspi- 
cious moment,  to  trust  his  person  without  the  defences  of 
the  army,  in  the  prosecution  of  this  commendable  design. 
There  was  so  much  that  was  flattering  to  the  self-love,  and 
soothing  to  the  pride  of  the  young  soldier,  artfully  mingled 
with  these  ambiguous  proposals,  that  he  became  content  to 
await  the  course  of  events,  having,  however,  secured  a prom- 
ise of  obtaining  a suitable  military  command  in  the  case  of 
further  hostilities.  That  such  an  event  was  at  hand,  could 
not  well  be  concealed  from  one  much  less  observing  than 
Major  Lincoln. 

Gage  had  already  abandoned  his  temporary  position  in 
Charlestown,  for  the  sake  of  procuring  additional  security  by 
concentrating  his  force.  From  the  hills  of  the  peninsula  of 
Boston,  it  was  apparent  that  the  colonists  were  fast  assum- 
ing the  front  of  men  who  were  resolved  to  beleaguer  the 
army  of  the  king.  Many  of  the  opposite  heights  were  al- 
ready crowned  with  hastily-formed  works  of  earth,  and  a 
formidable  body  of  these  unpractised  warriors  had  set  them- 
selves boldly  down  before  the  entrance  to  the  isthmus,  cut- 
ting off  all  communication  with  the  adjacent  country,  and 
occupying  the  little  village  of  Roxbury,  directly  before  the 
muzzles  of  the  British  guns,  with  a hardiness  that  would 
not  have  disgraced  men  much  longer  tried  in  the  field,  and 
more  inured  to  its  dangers. 

The  surprise  created  in  the  army  by  these  appearances  of 
skill  and  spirit  among  the  hitherto  despised  Americans,  in 
some  measure  ceased  when  the  rumor  spread  itself  in  their 
camp,  that  many  gentlemen  of  the  provinces,  who  had 


1 66 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


served  with  credit  in  the  forces  of  the  crown,  at  former  pe- 
riods, were  mingled  with  the  people  in  stations  of  responsi- 
bility and  command.  Among  others  Lionel  heard  the  names 
of  Ward  and  Thomas  ; men  of  liberal  attainments,  and  of 
some  experience  in  arms.  Both  were  regularly  commis- 
sioned by  the  congress  of  the  colony  as  leaders  of  their 
forces  ; and  under  their  orders  were  numerous  regiments 
duly  organized,  possessing  all  the  necessary  qualifications 
of  soldiers,  excepting  the  two  indispensable  requisites  of 
discipline  and  arms.  Lionel  heard  the  name  of  Warren 
mentioned  oftener  than  any  other  in  the  circles  of  Province 
House,  and  with  that  sort  of  bitterness,  which,  even  while 
it  bespoke  their  animosity,  betrayed  the  respect  of  his  ene- 
mies. This  gentleman,  who  until  the  last  moment  had 
braved  the  presence  of  the  royal  troops,  and  fearlessly  advo- 
cated his  principles,  while  encircled  with  their  bayonets, 
was  now  known  to  have  suddenly  disappeared  from  among 
them,  abandoning  home,  property,  and  a lucrative  profes- 
sion ; and  by  sharing  in  the  closing  scenes  of  the  day  of 
Texington,  to  have  fairly  cast  his  fortunes  on  the  struggle. 
But  the  name  which  in  secret  possessed  the  greatest  charm 
for  the  ear  of  the  young  British  soldier,  was  that  of  Putnam, 
a yeoman  of  the  neighboring  colony  of  Connecticut,  who, 
as  the  uproar  of  the  alarm  whirled  by  him,  literally  deserted 
his  plough,  and  mounting  a beast  from  its  team,  made  an 
early  halt,  after  a forced  march  of  a hundred  miles,  in  the 
foremost  ranks  of  his  countrymen.  While  the  name  of  this 
sturdy  American  was  passing  in  whispers  among  the  vete- 
rans who  crowded  the  levees  of  Gage,  a flood  of  melancholy 
and  tender  recollections  flashed  through  the  brain  of  the 
young  man.  He  remembered  the  frequent  and  interesting 
communications  which,  in  his  boyhood,  he  had  held  with 
his  own  father,  before  the  dark  shade  had  passed  across  the 
reason  of  Sir  Tionel,  and,  in  every  tale  of  murderous  com- 
bats with  the  savage  tenants  of  the  wilds,  in  each  scene  of 
danger  and  of  daring  that  had  distinguished  the  romantic 
warfare  of  the  wilderness,  and  even  in  strange  and  fearful 
encounters  with  the  beasts  of  the  forest,  the  name  of  this 
man  was  blended  with  a species  of  chivalrous  fame  that  is 


Xlonel  Xtncoln 


167 


seldom  obtained  in  an  enlightened  age,  and  never  undeserv- 
edly. The  great  wealth  of  the  family  of  Lincoln,  and  the 
high  expectations  of  its  heir,  had  obtained  for  the  latter  a 
military  rank  which  at  that  period  was  rarely  enjoyed  by 
any  but  such  as  had  bought  the  distinction  by  long  and  ar- 
duous services.  Consequently,  many  of  his  equals  had 
shared  in  those  trials  of  his  father,  in  which  the  ‘ ‘ L,ion 
heart”  of  America  had  been  so  conspicuous  for  his  deeds. 
By  these  grave  veterans,  who  should  know  him  best,  the 
name  of  Putnam  was  always  mentioned  with  strong  and  ro- 
mantic affection  ; and  when  the  notable  scheme  of  detaching 
him,  by  the  promise  of  office  and  wealth,  from  the  cause  of 
the  colonists,  was  proposed  by  the  cringing  counsellors  who 
surrounded  the  commander-in-chief,  it  was  listened  to  with  a 
Contemptuous  incredulity  by  the  former  associates  of  the  old 
partisan,  that  the  result  of  the  plan  fully  justified.  Similar 
inducements  were  offered  to  others  among  the  Americans, 
whose  talents  were  thought  worthy  of  purchase  ; but  so  deep 
root  had  the  principles  of  the  day  taken,  that  not  a man  of 
any  note  was  found  to  listen  to  the  proposition. 

While  these  subtle  experiments  were  adopted  in  the  room 
of  more  energetic  measures,  troops  continued  to  arrive  from 
England,  and,  before  the  end  of  May,  many  leaders  of  re- 
nown appeared  in  the  councils  of  Gage,  who  now  possessed  a 
disposable  force  of  not  less  than  eight  thousand  bayonets. 
With  the  appearance  of  these  reinforcements,  the  fallen  pride 
of  the  army  began  to  revive  ; and  the  spirits  of  the  haughty 
young  men,  who  had  so  recently  left  the  gay  parades  of 
their  boasted  island,  were  chafed  by  the  reflection  that  such 
an  arm}^  should  be  cooped  within  the  narrow  limits  of  the 
peninsula  by  a band  of  half-armed  husbandmen,  destitute 
alike  of  the  knowledge  of  war,  and  of  most  of  its  munitions. 
This  feeling  was  increased  by  the  taunts  of  the  Americans 
themselves,  who  now  turned  the  tables  on  their  adversaries, 
applying,  among  other  sneers,  the  term  of  “elbow-room” 
freely  to  Burgoyne,  one  of  those  chieftains  of  the  royal  army, 
who  had  boasted  unwittingly  of  the  intention  of  himself  and 
his  compeers  to  widen  the  limits  of  the  army  immediately  on 
their  arrival  at  the  scene  of  the  contest,  The  aspect  of 


i68 


Xionel  Xmcolrt 


things  within  the  British  camp  began  to  indicate,  however, 
that  their  leaders  were  serious  in  the  intention  to  extend 
their  possessions,  and  all  eyes  were  again  turned  to  the 
heights  of  Charlestown,  the  spot  most  likely  to  be  first 
occupied. 

No  military  positions  could  be  more  happily  situated,  as 
respects  locality,  to  support  each  other,  and  to  extend  and 
weaken  the  lines  of  their  enemies,  than  the  two  opposite 
peninsulas  so  often  mentioned.  The  distance  between  them 
was  but  six  hundred  yards,  and  the  deep  and  navigable 
waters,  by  which  they  were  nearly  surrounded,  rendered  it 
easy  for  the  royal  general  to  command,  at  any  time,  the 
assistance  of  the  heaviest  vessels  of  the  fleet,  in  defending 
either  place.  With  these  advantages  before  them,  the  army 
gladly  heard  those  orders  issued,  which,  it  was  well  under- 
stood, indicated  an  approaching  movement  to  the  opposite 
shores. 

It  was  now  eight  weeks  since  the  commencement  of  hos- 
tilities, and  the  war  had  been  confined  to  the  preparations 
detailed,  with  the  exception  of  one  or  two  sharp  skirmishes 
on  the  islands  of  the  harbor,  between  the  foragers  of  the 
army  and  small  parties  of  the  Americans,  in  which  the 
latter  well  maintained  their  newly  acquired  reputation  for 
spirit. 

With  the  arrival  of  the  regiments  from  England,  gayety 
had  once  more  visited  the  town,  though  such  of  the  inhabi- 
tants as  were  compelled  to  remain  against  their  inclinations, 
continued  to  maintain  that  cold  reserve,  in  their  deportment, 
which  effectually  repelled  all  the  efforts  of  the  officers  to 
include  them  in  the  wanton  festivities  of  the  time.  There 
were  a few,  however,  among  the  colonists,  who  had  been 
bribed,  by  offices  and  emoluments,  to  desert  the  good  cause 
of  the  land ; and  as  some  of  these  had  already  been  re- 
warded by  offices  which  gave  them  access  to  the  ear  of  the 
royal  governor,  he  was  thought  to  be  unduly  and  unhappily 
influenced  by  the  pernicious  counsels  with  wdiich  they  poi- 
soned his  mind,  and  prepared  him  for  acts  of  injustice  and 
harshness,  that  both  his  unbiassed  feelings  and  ordinary 
opinions  would  have  condemned.  A few  days  succeeding 


/ 

c 

i 

i 

K 

l 

i 


! 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


169 


the  affair  of  Lexington,  a meeting  of  the  inhabitants  had 
been  convened,  and  a solemn  compact  was  made  between 
them  and  the  governor,  that  such  as  chose  to  deliver  up 
their  arms  might  leave  the  place,  while  the  remainder  were 
promised  a suitable  protection  in  their  own  dwellings.  The 
arms  were  delivered,  but  that  part  of  the  conditions  which 
related  to  the  removal  of  the  inhabitants  was  violated  under 
slight  and  insufficient  pretexts.  This,  and  various  other 
causes  incidental  to  military  rule,  embittered  the  feelings  of 
the  people,  and  furnished  new  causes  of  complaint ; while, 
on  the  other  hand,  hatred  was  rapidly  usurping  the  place  of 
contempt,  in  the  breasts  of  those  who  had  been  compelled 
to  change  their  sentiments  with  respect  to  a peo,ple  that  they 
could  never  love.  In  this  manner,  resentment  and  distrust 
existed,  with  all  the  violence  of  personality,  within  the 
place  itself,  affording  an  additional  reason  to  the  troops  for 
wishing  to  extend  their  limits.  Notwithstanding  these  inau- 
spicious omens  of  the  character  of  the  contest,  the  native 
kindness  of  Gage,  and  perhaps  a desire  to  rescue  a few  of 
his  own  men  from  the  hands  of  the  colonists,  induced  him 
to  consent  to  an  exchange  of  the  prisoners  made  in  the 
inroad ; thus  establishing,  in  the  outset,  a precedent  to  dis- 
tinguish the  controversy  from  an  ordinary  rebellion  against 
the  loyal  authority  of  the  sovereign.  A meeting  was  held, 
for  this  purpose,  in  the  village  of  Charlestown,  at  that  time 
unoccupied  by  either  army.  At  the  head  of  the  American 
deputation  appeared  Warren,  and  the  old  partisan  of  the 
wilderness  already  mentioned,  who,  by  a happy,  though  not 
uncommon  constitution  of  temperament,  was  as  forward  in 
deeds  of  charity  as  in  those  of  daring.  At  this  interview, 
several  of  the  veterans  of  the  royal  army  were  present,  hav- 
ing passed  the  strait  to  hold  a last,  friendly  converse  with 
their  ancient  comrade,  who  received  them  with  the  frankness 
of  a soldier,  while  he  rejected  their  subtle  endeavors  to 
entice  him  from  the  banners  under  which  he  had  enlisted, 
with  a sturdiness  as  unpretending  as  it  was  inflexible. 

While  these  events  were  occurring  at  the  great  scene  of 
the  contest,  the  hum  of  preparation  was  to  be  heard  through- 
out the  whole  of  the  wide  extent  of  the  colonies.  In  various 


170 


Xionel  Xtncolrt 


places  slight  acts  of  hostility  were  committed,  the  Americans 
no  longer  waiting  for  the  British  to  be  the  aggressors,  and 
everywhere  such  military  stores  as  could  be  reached,  were 
seized,  peaceably  or  by  violence,  as  the  case  required. 
The  concentration  of  most  of  the  troops  in  Boston  had, 
however,  left  the  other  colonies  comparatively  but  little  to 
achieve,  though,  while  they  still  rested,  nominally,  under 
the  dominion  of  the  crown,  they  neglected  no  means 
within  their  power  to  assert  their  rights  in  the  last  ex- 
tremity. 

At  Philadelphia,  “the  Congress  of  the  Delegates  from  the 
United  Colonies,”  the  body  that  controlled  the  great  move- 
ments of  a people  who  now  first  began  to  act  as  a distinct 
nation,  issued  their  manifestoes,  supporting  in  a masterly 
manner  their  principles,  and  proceeded  to  organize  an  army 
that  should  be  as  competent  to  maintain  them  as  circum- 
stances would  allow.  Gentlemen  who  had  been  trained  to 
arms  in  the  service  of  the  king,  were  invited  to  resort  to 
their  banners,  and  the  remainder  of  the  vacancies  were  filled 
by  the  names  of  the  youthful,  the  bold,  and  adventurous, 
who  were  willing  to  risk  their  lives  in  a cause  where  even 
success  promised  so  little  personal  advantage.  At  the  head 
of  this  list  of  untrained  warriors,  the  congress  placed  one  of 
their  own  body,  a man  already  distinguished  for  his  services 
in  the  field,  and  who  has  since  bequeathed  to  his  country 
the  glory  of  an  untarnished  name. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


“Thou  shalt  see  me  at  Philippi.” 

Julius  Cczsar. 

DURING  this  period  of  feverish  excitement,  while 
the  appearance  and  privations  of  war  existed 
with  so  little  of  its  danger  or  its  action,  Lionel 
had  not  altogether  forgotten  his  personal  feelings, 
in  the  powerful  interest  created  by  the  state  of  public  affairs. 
Early  on  the  morning  succeeding  the  night  of  the  scene  be- 
tween Mrs.  Lechmere  and  the  inmates  of  the  warehouse,  he 
had  repaired  again  to  the  spot,  to  relieve  the  intense  anxiety 
of  his  mind,  by  seeking  a complete  explanation  of  all  those 
mysteries  which  had  been  the  principal  ligament  that  bound 
him  to  a man,  little  known,  except  for  his  singularities. 

The  effects  of  the  preceding  day’s  battle  were  already 
visible  in  the  market-place,  where,  as  Lionel  passed,  he  saw 
few  or  none  of  the  countrymen  who  usually  crowded  the 
square  at  that  hour.  In  fact,  the  windows  of  the  shops 
were  opened  with  caution,  and  men  looked  out  upon  the 
face  of  the  sun  as  if  doubting  of  its  appearance  and 
warmth,  as  in  seasons  of  ordinary  quiet ; jealousy  and  dis- 
trust having  completely  usurped  the  place  of  security  within 
the  streets  of  the  town.  Notwithstanding  the  hour,  few 
were  in  their  beds,  and  those  who  appeared,  betrayed  by 
their  looks  that  they  had  passed  the  night  in  watchfulness. 
Among  the  number  was  Abigail  Pray,  who  received  her 
guest  in  the  little  tower,  surrounded  by  everything  as  he 
had  seen  it  the  past  evening,  nothing  altered,  except  her 
own  dark  eye,  which  at  times  looked  like  a gem  of  price 
set  in  her  squalid  features,  but  which  now  appeared  haggard 

171 


172 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


and  sunken,  participating,  more  markedly  than  common,  in 
the  general  air  of  misery  that  pervaded  the  woman. 

“I  have  intruded  at  a somewhat  unusual  hour,  Mrs. 
Pray,”  said  Lionel,  as  he  entered;  4 ‘but  business  of  the 
last  moment  requires  that  I should  see  your  lodger.  I sup- 
pose he  is  above  : it  will  be  well  to  announce  my  visit.” 
Abigail  shook  her  head  with  an  air  of  solemn  meaning,  as 
she  answered,  in  a subdued  voice,  “ He  is  gone  ! ” 

“ Gone  ! ” exclaimed  Lionel.  “Whither,  and  when?  ” 
“The  people  seem  visited  by  the  wrath  of  God,  sir,”  re- 
turned the  woman.  “Old  and  young,  the  sick  and  well, 
are  crazy  about  the  shedding  of  blood  ; and  it ’s  beyond  the 
might  of  man  to  say  where  the  torrent  will  be  stayed.” 

‘ ‘ But  what  has  this  to  do  with  Ralph  ? Where  is  he  ? 
Woman,  you  are  not  playing  me  false?  ” 

“I!  Heaven  forbid  that  I should  ever  be  false  again! 
and  to  you  least  of  all  God’s  creatures  ! No,  no,  Major 
Lincoln ; the  wonderful  man,  who  seems  to  have  lived  so 
long  that  he  can  even  read  our  secret  thoughts,  as  I had 
supposed  man  could  never  read  them,  has  left  me,  and  I 
know  not  whether  he  will  ever  return.” 

‘ ‘ Ever  ! You  have  not  driven  him  by  violence  from  under 
your  miserable  roof?  ” 

“My  roof  is  like  that  of  the  fowls  of  the  air — ’tis  the 
roof  of  any  who  are  so  unfortunate  as  to  need  it.  There  is 
no  spot  on  earth,  Major  Eincoln,  that  I can  call  mine  : but 
one  day  there  will  be  one— yes,  3^es,  there  will  be  a narrow 
house  provided  for  us  all ; and  God  grant  that  mine  may  be 
as  quiet  as  the  coffin  is  said  to  be  ! I lie  not,  Major  Lincoln 
— no,  this  time  I am  innocent  of  deceit — Ralph  and  Job 
have  gone  together,  but  whither  I knew  not,  unless  it  be  to 
join  the  people  without  the  town.  They  left  me  as  the 
moon  rose,  and  he  gave  me  a parting  and  a warning  voice, 
that  will  ring  in  my  ears  until  they  are  deafened  by  the 
damps  of  the  grave  ! ’ ’ 

“ Gone  to  join  the  Americans,  and  with  Job  ! ” returned 
Lionel,  musing,  and  without  attending  to  the  closing  words 
of  Abigail.  “Your  boy  will  purchase  peril  with  this  mad- 
ness, Mrs.  Pray,  and  should  be  looked  to.” 


%ioncl  %\ncoln 


173 


‘‘Job  is  not  one  of  God’s  accountables,  nor  is  he  to  be 
treated  like  other  children,”  returned  the  woman.  “Ah 
Major  Lincoln,  a healthier,  and  a stouter,  and  a finer  boy 
was  not  to  be  seen  in  the  Bay  province,  till  the  child  had 
reached  his  fifth  year  ; then,  then  it  was  that  the  judgment 
of  Heaven  fell  on  mother  and  son — sickness  made  him 
what  you  see,  a being  with  the  form,  but  without  the  reason 
of  man,  and  I have  grown  the  wretch  I am.  But  it  has  all 
been  foretold,  and  warnings  enough  have  I had  of  it  all  ; 
for  is  it  not  said,  that  He  ‘ will  visit  the  sins  of  the  fathers 
upon  the  children  until  the  third  and  fourth  generation  ’ ? 
Thank  God,  my  sorrows  and  sins  will  end  with  Job,  for 
there  never  can  be  a third  to  suffer  ! ’ ’ 

“If,”  said  Lionel,  “ there  be  any  sin  which  lies  heavy  at 
your  heart,  every  consideration,  whether  of  justice  or  re- 
pentance, should  induce  you  to  confess  your  errors  to  those 
whose  happiness  may  be  affected  by  the  knowledge,  if  any 
such  there  be.  ’ ’ 

The  anxious  eye  of  the  woman  raised  itself  to  meet  the 
look  of  the  young  man  ; but  quailing  before  the  piercing 
gaze  it  encountered,  she  quickly  turned  it  upon  the  litter 
and  confusion  of  her  disordered  apartment.  Lionel  waited 
some  time  for  a reply  ; but  finding  that  she  remained  ob- 
stinately silent,  he  continued, — 

“From  what  has  already  passed,  you  must  be  conscious 
that  I have  good  reasons  to  believe  that  my  feelings  are 
deeply  concerned  in  your  secret ; make,  then,  your  confes- 
sion of  the  guilt  which  seems  to  bear  you  down  so  heavily ; 
and  in  return  for  the  confidence,  I promise  you  my  forgive- 
ness and  protection.” 

As  Lionel  pressed  thus  directly  the  point  so  near  his 
heart,  the  woman  shrunk  away  from  her  situation  near  him, 
and  her  countenance  lost,  as  he  proceeded,  its  remarkable 
expression  of  compunction,  in  a forced  look  of  deep  sur- 
prise, that  showed  she  was  no  novice  in  dissimulation,  what- 
ever might  be  the  occasional  warnings  of  her  conscience. 

“ Guilt ! ” she  repeated,  in  a slow  and  tremulous  voice  : 
“ we  are  all  guilty,  and  would  be  lost  creatures,  but  for  the 
blood  of  the  Mediator.” 


i74 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


“ Most  true.  But  you  have  spoken  of  crimes  that  infringe 
the  laws  of  man,  as  well  as  those  of  God.” 

” I ! Major  Lincoln — I a disorderly  law-breaker  ! ” ex- 
claimed Abigail,  affecting  to  busy  herself  in  arranging  her 
apartment.  “ It  is  not  such  as  I that  have  leisure  or  cour- 
age to  break  the  laws  ! Major  Lincoln  is  trying  a poor 
lone  woman,  to  make  his  jokes  with  the  gentlemen  of  his 
mess  this  evening  : ’t  is  certain  we  all  of  us  have  our  bur- 
dens of  guilt  to  answer  for.  Surely  Major  Lincoln  could  n’t 
have  heard  Minister  Hunt  preach  his  sermon,  the  last  Sab- 
bath, on  the  sins  of  the  town  ! ” 

Lionel  colored  highly  at  the  artful  imputation  of  the 
woman,  that  he  was  practising  on  her  sex  and  unprotected 
situation  ; and,  greatly  provoked  in  secret,  at  her  duplicity, 
he  became  more  guarded  in  his  language,  endeavoring  to 
lead  her  on,  by  kindness  and  soothing,  to  the  desired  com- 
munications. But  all  his  ingenuity  was  met  by  more  than 
equal  abilities  on  the  part  of  Abigail,  from  whom  he  only 
obtained  expressions  of  surprise,  that  he  could  have  mis- 
taken her  language  for  more  than  the  usual  acknowledg- 
ment of  errors,  that  are  admitted  to  be  common  to  our  lost 
nature.  In  this  particular,  the  woman  was  in  no  respect 
singular ; the  greater  number  of  those  who  are  loudest  in 
their  confessions  and  denunciations  on  the  abandoned  nature 
of  our  hearts,  commonly  resenting,  in  the  deepest  manner, 
the  imputation  of  individual  offences.  The  more  earnest 
and  pressing  his  inquiries  became,  the  more  wary  she  grew, 
until,  disgusted  with  her  pertinacity,  and  secretly  suspecting 
her  of  foul  play  with  her  lodger,  he  left  the  house  in  anger, 
determining  to  keep  a close  eye  on  her  movements,  and,  at 
a suitable  moment,  to  strike  such  a blow  as  should  bring 
her  not  only  to  confession,  but  to  shame. 

Under  the  influence  of  this  momentary  resentment,  and 
unable  to  avoid  harboring  the  most  unpleasant  suspicions 
of  his  aunt,  the  young  man  determined,  that  very  morning, 
to  withdraw  himself  entirely,  as  a guest,  from  her  dwelling. 
Mrs.  Lechmere,  who,  if  she  knew  at  all  that  Lionel  had 
been  a witness  of  her  intercourse  with  Ralph,  must  have 
received  the  intelligence  from  Abigail,  received  him,  at 


Xfonel  Xincoln 


!7S 


breakfast,  with  a manner  that  betrayed  no  such  conscious- 
ness. She  listened  to  his  excuses  for  removing  with  evident 
concern  ; and  more  than  once,  as  Lionel  spoke  of  the  prob- 
able nature  of  his  future  life,  now  that  hostilities  had  com- 
menced— the  additional  trouble  his  presence  would  occasion 
to  one  of  her  habits  and  years — of  his  great  concern  in 
her  behalf — and,  in  short,  of  all  that  he  could  devise  in 
the  way  of  apology  for  the  step,  he  saw  her  eyes  turned 
anxiously  on  Cecil,  with  an  expression  which,  at  another 
time,  might  have  led  him  to  distrust  the  motives  of  her  hos- 
pitality. The  young  lady  herself,  however,  evidently  heard 
the  proposal  with  great  satisfaction,  and,  when  her  grand- 
mother appealed  to  her  opinion,  whether  he  had  urged  a 
single  good  reason  for  the  measure,  she  answered,  with  a 
vivacity  that  had  been  a stranger  to  her  manner  of  late, — 
'‘Certainly,  my  dear  grandmamma,  the  best  of  all  rea- 
sons— his  inclinations.  Major  Lincoln  tires  of  us,  and  of 
our  humdrum  habits,  and — and  in  my  eyes,  true  politeness 
requires  that  we  should  suffer  him  to  leave  us  for  his  bar- 
racks, without  a word  of  remonstrance.” 

‘ ‘ My  motive  must  be  greatly  mistaken,  if  a desire  to 
leave  you — ” 

“ O,  sir,  the  explanation  is  not  required.  You  have 
urged  so  many  reasons,  cousin  Lionel,  that  the  true  and 
moving  motive  is  yet  kept  behind  the  curtain.  It  must  and 
can  be  no  other  than  ennui” 

“Then  I will  remain/ ’ said  Lionel;  “for  anything  is 
better  than  to  be  suspected  of  insensibility.” 

Cecil  looked  both  gratified  and  disappointed ; she  played 
with  her  spoon  a moment  in  embarrassment,  bit  her  beautiful 
lip  with  vexation,  and  then  said,  in  a more  friendly  tone, — 

“ I must  then  exonerate  you  from  the  imputation.  Go 
to  your  own  quarters,  if  it  be  agreeable,  and  we  will  believe 
your  incomprehensible  reasons  for  the  change  ; besides,  as  a 
kinsman,  we  shall  see  you  every  day,  you  know.” 

Lionel  had  now  no  longer  any  excuse  for  not  abiding  by 
his  avowed  determination  ; and,  notwithstanding  Mrs.  Lech- 
mere  parted  from  her  interesting  nephew  with  an  exhibi- 
tion of  reluctance  that  was  in  singular  contrast  with  her 


176 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


usually  cold  and  formal  manner,  the  desired  removal  was 
made  in  the  course  of  that  very  morning. 

When  this  change  was  accomplished,  week  after  week 
slipped  by  in  the  manner  related  in  the  preceding  chapter, 
during  which  the  reinforcements  continued  to  arrive,  and 
general  after  general  appeared  in  the  place  to  support  the 
unenterprising  Gage  in  the  conduct  of  the  war.  The  timid 
amongst  the  colonists  were  appalled  as  they  heard  the  long 
list  of  proud  and  boasted  names  recounted.  There  was 
Howe,  a man  sprung  from  a noble  race,  long  known  for  their 
deeds  in  arms,  and  whose  chief  had  already  shed  his  blood 
on  the  soil  of  America  ; Clinton,  another  cadet  of  an  illus- 
trious house,  better  known  for  his  personal  intrepidity  and 
domestic  kindness,  than  for  the  rough  qualities  of  the  war- 
rior ; and  the  elegant  and  accomplished  Burgoyne,  who  had 
already  purchased  a name  in  the  fields  of  Portugal  and 
Germany,  which  he  was  destined  soon  to  lose  in  the  wilds 
of  America.  In  addition  to  these  might  be  mentioned 
Pigot,  Grant,  Robertson,  and  the  heir  of  Northumberland, 
each  of  whom  led  a brigade  in  the  cause  of  his  prince  ; 
besides  a host  of  men  of  lesser  note,  who  had  passed  their 
youth  in  arms,  and  were  now  about  to  bring  their  expe- 
rience to  the  field,  in  opposition  to  the  untrained  husband- 
men of  the  plains  of  New  England.  As  if  this  were  not 
sufficient  to  overwhelm  their  inexperienced  adversaries,  the 
pride  of  arms  had  gathered  many  of  the  young  among  the 
noble  and  chivalric  in  the  British  empire,  to  the  point  on 
which  all  eyes  were  turned ; amongst  whom,  the  one  who 
afterwards  added  the  fairest  wreath  to  the  laurels  of  his 
ancestors,  was  the  joint  heir  of  Blastings  and  Moria,  the 
gallant,  but,  as  yet,  untried  boy  of  Rawdon.  Amongst  such 
companions,  many  of  whom  had  been  his  associates  in  Eng- 
land, the  hours  of  Eionel  passed  swiftly  by,  leaving  him 
but  little  leisure  to  meditate  on  those  causes  which  had 
brought  him  also  to  the  scene  of  contention. 

One  warm  evening,  towards  the  middle  of  June,  Eionel 
became  a witness  of  the  following  scene,  through  the  open 
doors  which  communicated  between  his  private  apartment 
and  the  room  which  Polwarth  had  dedicated  to  what  he 


%ionc l Xincoln 


*77 


called  “ the  knowing  mess.”  M’Fuse  was  seated  at  a table, 
with  a ludicrous  air  of  magisterial  authority,  while  Pol- 
warth  held  a station  at  his  side,  which  appeared  to  partake 
of  the  double  duties  of  a judge  and  a scribe.  Before  this 
formidable  tribunal  Seth  Sage  was  arraigned,  as  it  would 
seem,  to  answer  for  certain  offences  alleged  to  have  been 
committed  in  the  field  of  battle.  Ignorant  that  his  landlord 
had  not  received  the  benefit  of  the  late  exchange,  and  curi- 
ous to  know  what  all  the  suppressed  roguery  he  could  detect 
in  the  demure  countenances  of  his  friends  might  signify, 
Lionel  dropped  his  pen,  and  listened  to  the  succeeding  dia* 
logue. 

‘‘Now  answer  to  your  offences,  you  silly  fellow,  with  a 
wise  name,”  M’Fuse  commenced,  in  a voice  that  did  not  fail, 
by  its  harsh  cadences,  to  create  some  of  that  awe  which,  by 
the  expression  of  the  speaker’s  eye,  it  would  seem  he  labored 
to  produce  ; “ speak  out  with  the  freedom  of  a man,  and  the 
compunctions  of  a Christian,  if  you  have  them.  Wh}^  should 
I not  send  you  at  once  to  Ireland,  that  ye  may  get  your 
deserts  on  three  pieces  of  timber,  the  one  being  laid  cross- 
wise for  the  sake  of  convenience  ? If  you  have  a contrary 
reason,  bestow  it  without  delay,  for  the  love  you  bear  your 
own  angular  deformities.” 

The  wags  did  not  altogether  fail  in  their  object,  Seth  be- 
traying a good  deal  more  uneasiness  than  it  was  usual  for 
the  man  to  exhibit  even  in  situations  of  uncommon  peril. 
After  clearing  his  throat,  and  looking  about  him,  to  gather 
from  the  eyes  of  the  spectators  which  way  their  sympathies 
inclined,  he  answered  with  a very  commendable  fortitude, — 

“ Because  it ’s  ag’in  all  law.” 

“Have  done  with  your  interminable  perplexities  of  the 
law,”  cried  M’Fuse,  “and  do  not  bother  honest  gentlemen 
with  its  knavery,  as  if  they  were  no  more  than  so  many 
proctors  in  big  wigs  ! ’T  is  the  Gospel  you  should  be  think- 
ing of,  you  godless  reprobate,  on  account  of  that  final  end 
you  will  yet  make,  one  day,  in  most  indecent  hurry.  ’ ’ 

“To  your  purpose,  Mac,”  interrupted  Polwarth,  who  per- 
ceived that  the  erratic  feelings  of  his  friend  were  beginning 

already  to  lead  him  from  the  desired  point ; “ or  I will  pro- 
12 


r7S 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


pound  the  matter  myself,  in  a style  that  would  do  credit  to  a 
mandamus  counsellor.’ ’ 

“ The  mandamuses  are  all  agin  the  charter,  and  the  law 
too,”  continued  Seth,  whose  courage  increased  as  the  dia- 
logue bore  more  directly  upon  his  political  principles  ; ‘ ‘ and 
to  my  mind  it ’s  quite  convincing,  that  if  ministers  calculate 
largely  on  upholding  them,  there  will  be  great  disturbances, 
if  not  a proper  fight  in  the  land ; for  the  whole  country  is 
in  a blaze  ! ” 

4 ‘ Disturbances,  thou  immovable  iniquity!  thou  quiet 
assassin  !”  roared  M’Fuse;  “do  ye  not  call  a light  of  a 
day  a disturbance  ? or  do  ye  tarm  skulking  behind  fences, 
and  laying  the  muzzle  of  a musket  on  the  head  of  Job  Pray, 
and  the  breech  of  a mullein-stalk,  while  ye  draw  upon  a 
fellow-creature,  a commendable  method  of  fighting?  Now 
answer  me  to  the  truth,  and  disdain  all  lying,  as  ye  would 
’ating  anything  but  cod  on  a Saturday,  who  were  the  two 
men  that  fired  into  my  very  countenance,  from  the  unfor- 
tunate situation  among  the  mulleins  that  I have  detailed  to 
you  ? ’ ’ 

“ Pardon  me,  Captain  M’Fuse,”  said  Polwarth,  “ if  I say 
that  your  zeal  and  indignation  run  ahead  of  your  discretion. 
If  we  alarm  the  prisoner  in  this  manner,  we  may  defeat  the 
ends  of  justice.  Besides,  sir,  there  is  a reflection  contained 
in  your  language,  to  which  I must  dissent.  A real  dumb  is 
not  to  be  despised,  especially  when  served  up  in  wrapper, 
and  between  two  coarser  fish,  to  preserve  the  steam.  I have 
had  my  private  meditations  on  the  subject  of  getting  up  a 
Saturday’s  club,  in  order  to  enjoy  the  bounty  of  the  Bay, 
and  for  improving  the  cookery  of  the  cod.”  1 

” And  let  me  tell  you,  Captain  Polwarth,”  returned  the 
grenadier,  cocking  his  eye  fiercely  at  the  other,  ‘ ‘ that  your 

1 It  may  be  a fit  matter  of  inquiry  for  the  antiquarian,  to  learn 
whether  the  captain  ever  put  his  project  in  execution  ; and  if  so, 
whether  he  has  not  the  merit  of  founding  that  famous  association, 
which,  to  this  hour,  maintains  the  catholic  custom  of  the  east,  by 
feasting  on  the  last  day  of  the  week  and  on  the  staple  of  New  England  ; 
and  which  is  said  to  assemble  regularly,  with  much  good-fellowship, 
around  more  good  wine  than  is  ever  encountered  at  any  other  board 
in  the  known  world. 


Xlonel  ^Lincoln 


179 


epicurean  propensities  lead  you  to  the  verge  of  cannibalism  ; 
for  sure  it  may  be  called  that , when  you  speak  of  ’ating, 
while  the  life  of  a fellow-cr’  ature  is  under  discussion  for  its 
termination — ’ ’ 

“I  conclude,”  interrupted  Seth,  who  was  greatly  averse 
to  all  quarrelling,  and  who  thought  he  saw  the  symptoms 
of  a breach  between  his  judges,  “ the  captain  wishes  to  know 
who  the  two  men  were  that  fired  on  him  a short  time  before 
he  got  the  hit  in  the  shoulder  ? ’ ’ 

“ A short  time,  ye  marvellous  hypocrite  ! — ’t  was  as  quick 
as  pop  and  slap  could  make  it.” 

“ Perhaps  there  might  be  some  mistake,  for  a great  many 
of  the  troops  were  much  disguised — ” 

“ Do  ye  insinuate  that  I got  drunk  before  the  enemies  of 
my  king?  ” roared  the  grenadier.  “ Harkye,  Mister  Sage  ; 
I ask  you  in  a genteel  way,  who  the  two  men  were  that 
fired  on  me,  in  the  manner  detailed  ; and  remember  that  a 
man  may  tire  of  putting  questions  which  are  never  an- 
swered.” 

“ Why,”  returned  Seth,  who,  however  expert  at  prevar- 
ication, eschewed,  with  religious  horror,  a direct  lie,  “ I 
pretty  much  conclude  that  they — the  captain  is  sure  the 
place  he  means  was  just  beyond  Menotomy  ? ” 

“ As  sure  as  men  can  be,”  said  Polwarth,  ‘ ‘ who  possess 
the  use  of  their  eyes.” 

‘ ‘ Then  Captain  Polwarth  can  give  testimony  to  the 
fact?” 

”1  believe  Major  Lincoln’s  horse  carries  a small  bit  of 
your  lead  to  this  moment,  Master  Sage.” 

Seth  yielded  to  this  accumulation  of  evidence  against 
him  ; and  knowing,  moreover,  that  the  grenadier  had  liter- 
ally made  him  a prisoner  in  the  act  of  renewing  his  fire, 
he  sagaciously  determined  to  make  a merit  of  necessity,  and 
candidly  to  acknowledge  his  agency  in  inflicting  the  wounds. 
The  utmost,  however,  that  his  cautious  habits  would  permit 
him  to  say,  was, — 

“Seeing  there  can’t  well  be  any  mistake,  I seem  to  think 
the  two  men  were  chiefly  Job  and  I.” 

“Chiefly,  you  lath  of  uncertainty!”  exclaimed  M’Fuse; 


i8o 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


‘ ‘ if  there  was  any  chief  in  that  cowardly  assassination  of 
wounding  a Christian,  and  of  also  hurting  a horse — which, 
though  nothing  but  a dumb  baste,  has  better  blood  than 
runs  in  your  beggarly  veins — ’twas  your  own  ugly  propor- 
tions. But  I rejoice  that  you  come  to  the  confessional  ! I 
can  now  see  you  hung  with  felicity.  If  you  have  anything 
to  say,  urge  it  at  once,  why  I should  not  embark  you  for 
Ireland  by  the  first  vessel,  in  a letter  to  my  lord-lieutenant, 
with  a request  that  he  ’ll  give  you  an  early  procession,  and 
a dacent  funeral.” 

Seth  belonged  to  a class  of  his  countrymen,  amongst 
whom,  while  there  was  a superabundance  of  ingenuity,  there 
was  literally  no  joke.  Deceived  by  the  appearance  of  anger, 
which  had  in  reality  blended  with  the  assumed  manner  of 
the  grenadier,  as  he  dwelt  upon  the  irritating  subject  of  his 
own  injuries,  the  belief  of  the  prisoner  in  the  sacred  protec- 
tion of  the  laws  became  much  shaken,  and  he  began  to  re- 
flect very  seriously  on  the  insecurity  of  the  times,  as  well  as 
on  the  despotic  nature  of  the  military  power.  The  little 
humor  he  had  inherited  from  his  Puritan  ancestors  was, 
though  exceedingly  quaint,  altogether  after  a different  fash- 
ion from  the  off-hand,  blundering  wit  of  the  Irishman  ; and 
that  manner  which  he  did  not  possess,  he  could  not  entirely 
comprehend  ; so  that,  as  far  as  a very  visible  alarm  furthered 
the  views  of  the  two  conspirators,  they  were  quite  success- 
ful. Polwarth  now  took  pity  on  his  evident  embarrassment, 
and  observed,  with  a careless  manner,— 

‘ ‘ Perhaps  I can  make  a proposal,  by  which  Mr.  Sage  may 
redeem  his  neck  from  the  halter,  and  at  the  same  time  essen- 
tially serve  an  old  friend.” 

“ Hear  ye  that,  thou  confounder  of  men  and  bastes!” 
cried  M’Fuse.  ” Down  on  your  knees,  and  thank  Mr. 
Pater  Polwarth  for  the  charity  of  his  insinuation.” 

Seth  was  not  displeased  to  hear  such  amicable  intentions 
announced  ; but,  habitually  cautious  in  all  bargaining,  he 
suppressed  the  exhibition  of  his  satisfaction,  and  said,  with 
an  air  of  deliberation  that  would  have  done  credit  to  the 
keenest  trader  in  King  Street,  that  ‘ ‘ he  should  like  to  hear 
the  terms  of  agreement,  before  he  gave  his  conclusion.” 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


181 


‘ ‘ They  are  simply  these,  ’ ’ returned  Polwarth  : ‘ ‘ you  shall 
receive  your  passports  and  freedom  to-night,  on  condition 
that  you  sign  this  bond,  whereby  you  will  become  obliged 
to  supply  our  mess,  as  usual,  during  the  time  the  place  is 
invested,  with  certain  articles  of  food  and  nourishment,  as 
herein  set  forth,  and  according  to  the  prices  mentioned, 
which  the  veriest  Jew  in  Duke’s  Place  would  pronounce  to 
be  liberal.  Here,  take  the  instrument,  and  ‘ read  and  mark,’ 
in  order  that  we  may  ‘ inwardly  digest.’  ” 

Seth  took  the  paper,  and  gave  it  that  manner  of  investiga- 
tion that  he  was  wont  to  bestow  on  everything  which  affected 
his  pecuniary  interests.  He  objected  to  the  price  of  every 
article,  all  of  which  were  altered  in  compliance  with  his  ob- 
stinate resistance ; and  he  moreover  insisted  that  a clause 
should  be  inserted  to  exonerate  him  from  the  penalty,  pro- 
vided the  intercourse  should  be  prohibited  by  the  authorities 
of  the  colony  ; after  which  he  continued, — 

“ If  the  captain  will  agree  to  take  charge  of  the  things,  and 
become  liable,  I will  conclude  to  make  the  trade.” 

“ Here  is  a fellow  who  wants  boot  in  a bargain  for  his 
life!”  cried  the  grenadier.  “But  we  will  humor  his  cov- 
etous inclination,  Polly,  and  take  charge  of  the  chattels. 
Captain  Polwarth  and  myself  pledge  our  words  to  their  safe- 
keeping. L,et  me  run  my  eyes  over  the  articles,”  continued 
the  grenadier,  looking  very  gravely  at  the  several  covenants 
of  the  bond.  “ Faith,  Pater,  you  have  bargained  fora  goodly 
larder ! Baif,  mutton,  pigs,  turnips,  potatoes,  melons,  and 
other  fruits — there  ’s  a blunder,  now,  that  would  keep  an 
English  mess  on  a grin  for  a month,  if  an  Irishman  had 
made  it  ! as  if  a melon  was  a fruit,  and  a potato  was  not ! 
The  devil  a word  do  I see  that  you  have  said  about  a mouth- 
ful, except  aitables,  either  ! Here,  fellow,  clap  your  learn- 
ing to  it,  and  I ’ll  warrant  you  we  yet  get  a meal  out  of  it,  in 
some  manner  or  other.  ’ ’ 

“Would  n’t  it  be  as  well  to  put  the  last  agreement  in  the 
writings,  too,”  said  Seth,  “in  case  of  accidents  ? ” 

‘ ‘ Hear  how  a knave  halters  himself ! ’ ’ cried  M’  Fuse  : “ he 
has  the  individual  honor  of  two  captains  of  foot,  and  is  will- 
ing to  exchange  it  for  their  joint  bond  ! The  request  is  too 


182 


Xionel  Xincoln 


raisonable  to  be  denied,  Polly,  and  we  should  be  guilty  of 
pecuniary  suicide  to  reject  it ; so  place  a small  article  at  the 
bottom,  explanatory  of  the  mistake  the  gentleman  has  fallen 
into.” 

Polwarth  did  not  hesitate  to  comply,  and  in  a very  few 
minutes  everything  was  arranged  to  the  perfect  satisfaction 
of  the  parties ; the  two  soldiers  felicitating  themselves  on 
the  success  of  a scheme  which  seemed  to  avert  the  principal 
evils  of  the  leaguer  from  their  own  mess  ; and  Seth  finding 
no  difficulty  in  complying  with  an  agreement  which  was 
likely  to  prove  so  profitable,  however  much  he  doubted  its 
validity  in  a court  of  justice.  The  prisoner  was  now  declared 
at  liberty,  and  was  advised  to  make  his  way  out  of  the  place, 
with  as  little  noise  as  possible,  and  under  favor  of  the  pass 
he  held.  Seth  gave  the  bond  a last  and  most  attentive  pe- 
rusal, and  then  departed,  well  contented  to  abide  by  its  con- 
ditions, and  not  a little  pleased  to  escape  from  the  grenadier, 
the  expression  of  whose  half-comic,  half-serious  eye,  occa- 
sioned him  more  perplexity  than  any  other  subject  which  had 
ever  before  occupied  his  astuteness.  After  the  disappear- 
ance of  the  prisoner,  the  two  worthies  repaired  to  their 
nightly  banquet,  laughing  heartily  at  the  success  of  their 
notable  invention. 

Lionel  suffered  Seth  to  pass  from  the  room,  without  speak- 
ing ; but,  as  the  man  left  his  own  abode  with  a lingering  and 
doubtful  step,  the  young  soldier  followed  him  into  the  street, 
without  communicating  to  any  one  that  he  had  witnessed 
what  had  passed,  with  the  laudable  intention  of  adding  his 
own  personal  pledge  for  the  security  of  the  household  goods 
in  question.  He,  however,  found  it  no  easy  achievement  to 
equal  the  speed  of  a man  who  had  just  escaped  from  a long 
confinement,  and  who  now  appeared  inclined  to  indulge  his 
limbs  freely  in  the  pleasure  of  an  unlimited  exercise.  The 
velocity  of  Seth  continued  unabated,  until  he  had  conducted 
Lionel  far  into  the  lower  parts  of  the  town,  where  the  latter 
• perceived  him  to  encounter  a man,  with  whom  he  turned 
.suddenly  under  an  arch  which  led  into  a dark  and  narrow 
court.  Lionel  instantly  increased  his  speed,  and  as  he  en- 
tered beneath  the  passage,  he  caught  a glimpse  of  the  lank 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


183 


figure  of  the  object  of  his  pursuit,  gliding  through  the 
opposite  entrance  to  the  court ; and,  at  the  same  moment, 
he  encountered  the  man  who  had  apparently  induced  the  de- 
viation in  his  route.  As  Lionel  stepped  a little  on  one  side, 
the  light  of  the  lamp  fell  full  on  the  form  of  the  other,  and 
he  recognized  the  person  of  the  active  leader  of  the  caucus 
(as  the  political  meeting  he  had  attended  was  called),  though 
so  disguised  and  muffled  that,  but  for  the  accidental  opening 
of  the  folds  of  his  cloak,  the  unknown  might  have  passed 
his  nearest  friend  without  discovery. 

“We  meet  again  !”  exclaimed  Lionel,  in  the  quickness 
of  surprise ; “ though  it  would  seem  that  the  sun  is  never 
to  shine  on  our  interviews.’  ’ 

The  stranger  started,  and  betrayed  an  evident  wish  to 
continue  his  walk,  as  though  the  other  had  mistaken  his 
person;  then,  as  if  suddenlyrecollecting  himself,  he  turned 
and  approached  Lionel,  with  easy  dignity,  and  answered, — 

‘ ‘ The  third  time  is  said  to  contain  the  charm  ! I am 
happy  to  find  that  I meet  Major  Lincoln  unharmed,  after  the 
dangers  he  so  lately  encountered.” 

‘ ‘ The  dangers  have  probably  been  exaggerated  by  those 
who  wish  ill  to  the  cause  of  our  master,”  returned  Lionel, 
coldly. 

There  was  a calm,  but  proud  smile  on  the  face  of  the 
stranger,  as  he  replied, — 

‘ ‘ I shall  not  dispute  the  information  of  one  who  bore  so 
conspicuous  a part  in  the  deeds  of  that  day.  Still  you  will 
remember,  though  the  march  to  Lexington  was,  like  our 
own  accidental  rencontres,  in  the  dark,  that  a bright  sun 
shone  upon  the  retreat,  and  nothing  has  been  hid.  ’ ’ 

“ Nothing  need  be  concealed,”  replied  Lionel,  nettled  by 
the  proud  composure  of  the  other,  “ unless,  indeed,  the  man 
I address  is  afraid  to  walk  the  streets  of  Boston  in  open 
day.  ’ ’ 

“The  man  you  address,  Major  Lincoln,”  said  the  stran- 
ger, advancing  in  his  warmth  a step  nearer  to  Lionel,  r<  has 
dared  to  walk  the  streets  of  Boston  both  by  day  and  by 
night,  when  the  bullies  of  him  you  call  your  master  have 
.strutted  their  hour  in  the  security  of  peace ; and,  now  a 


184 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


nation  is  up  to  humble  their  pretensions,  shall  he  shrink 
from  treading  his  native  soil  when  he  will  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ This  is  bold  language  from  an  enemy  within  a British 
camp  ! Ask  yourself  what  course  my  duty  requires  of 
me.” 

“That  is  a question  which  lies  between  Major  Lincoln 
and  his  conscience,”  returned  the  stranger;  “ though,”  he 
added,  after  a momentary  pause,  and  in  a milder  tone,  as  if 
he  recollected  the  danger  of  his  situation,  “the  gentlemen 
of  his  name  and  lineage  were  not  apt  to  be  informers,  when 
they  dwelt  in  the  land  of  their  birth.” 

“Neither  is  their  descendant.  But  let  this  be  the  last 
of  our  interviews,  until  we  can  meet  as  friends,  or,  as  ene- 
mies should,  where  we  may  discuss  these  topics  at  the  points 
of  our  weapons.” 

‘ ‘ Amen  ! ’ ’ said  the  stranger,  seizing  the  hand  of  the  young 
man,  and  pressing  it  with  the  warmth  of  a generous  emula- 
tion ; ‘ ‘ that  hour  may  not  be  far  distant,  and  may  God 
smile  only  on  the  just  cause  ! ” 

Without  uttering  more,  he  drew  the  folds  of  his  dress 
more  closely  around  his  form,  and  walked  so  swiftly  away 
that  Lionel,  had  he  possessed  the  inclination,  could  not  have 
found  an  opportunity  to  arrest  his  progress.  As  all  expec- 
tation of  overtaking  Seth  was  now  lost,  the  young  soldier 
returned  slowly  and  thoughtfully  towards  his  quarters. 

The  two  or  three  succeeding  days  were  distinguished  by 
an  appearance  of  more  than  usual  preparation  among  the 
troops,  and  it  became  known  that  officers  of  rank  had  closely 
reconnoitred  the  grounds  of  the  opposite  peninsula.  Lionel 
patiently  awaited  the  progress  of  events  ; but  as  the  proba- 
bility of  active  service  increased,  his  wishes  to  make  another 
effort  to  probe  the  secret  of  the  tenant  of  the  warehouse 
revived,  and  he  took  his  way  towards  the  Dock  Square, 
with  that  object,  on  the  night  of  the  fourth  day  from  the 
preceding  interview  with  the  stranger.  It  was  long  after 
the  tattoo  had  laid  the  town  in  that  deep  quiet  which  follows 
the  bustle  of  a garrison  ; and,  as  he  passed  along,  he  saw 
none  but  the  sentinels  pacing  their  short  limits,  or  an  occa- 
sional officer,  returning  at  that  late  hour  from  his  revels  or 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


his  duty.  The  windows  of  the  warehouse  were  dark,  and 
its  inhabitants,  if  any  it  had,  were  wrapped  in  deep  sleep. 
Restless  and  excited,  Lionel  pursued  his  walk  through  the 
narrow  and  gloomy  streets  of  the  North  End,  until  he  un- 
expectedly found  himself  issuing  upon  the  open  space  that 
is  tenanted  by  the  dead,  on  Copp’s  Hill.  On  this  eminence 
the  English  general  had  caused  a battery  of  heavy  cannon 
to  be  raised,  and  Lionel,  unwilling  to  encounter  the  chal- 
lenge of  the  sentinels,  inclining  a little  to  one  side,  pro- 
ceeded to  the  brow  of  the  hill,  and,  seating  himself  on  a 
stone,  began  to  muse  deeply  on  his  own  fortunes,  and  the 
situation  of  the  country. 

The  night  was  obscure,  but  the  thin  vapors  which 
appeared  to  overhang  the  place  opened  at  times,  when  a 
faint  starlight  fell  from  the  heavens,  and  rendered  the  black 
hulls  of  the  vessels  of  war,  that  lay  moored  before  the  town, 
and  the  faint  outlines  of  the  opposite  shores,  dimly  visible. 
The  stillness  of  midnight  rested  on  the  scene,  and  when  the 
loud  calls  of  “ All ’s  well  ! ” ascended  from  the  ships  and  bat- 
teries, the  momentary  cry  was  succeeded  by  a quiet  as  deep 
as  if  the  universe  slumbered  under  this  assurance  of  safety. 
At  such  an  instant,  when  even  the  light  breathings  of  the 
night  air  were  audible,  the  sound  of  rippling  waters,  like 
that  occasioned  by  raising  a paddle  with  extreme  caution, 
was  borne  to  the  ear  of  the  young  soldier.  He  listened 
intently,  and  then,  bending  his  eyes  in  the  direction  of  the 
faint  sounds,  he  saw  a small  canoe  gliding  along  the  surface 
of  the  water,  and  soon  shoot  upon  the  gravelly  shore,  at  the 
foot  of  the  hill,  with  a motion  so  easy  and  uniform  as 
scarcely  to  curl  a wave  on  the  land.  Curious  to  know  who 
could  be  moving  about  the  harbor  at  this  hour,  in  such  a 
secret  manner,  Lionel  was  in  the  act  of  rising  to  descend, 
when  he  saw  the  dim  figure  of  a man  land  from  the  boat, 
and  climb  the  hill,  directly  in  a line  with  his  own  position. 
Suppressing  even  the  sounds  of  his  breath,  and  drawing  his 
body  back  within  the  deep  shadow  cast  from  a point  of  the 
hill,  a little  above  him,  Lionel  waited  until  the  figure  had 
approached  within  ten  feet  of  him,  when  it  stopped,  and 
appeared,  like  himself,  to  be  endeavoring  to  suppress  all 


1 86 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


other  sounds  and  feelings  in  the  absorbing  act  of  deep  atten- 
tion. The  young  soldier  loosened  his  sword  in  its  sheath, 
before  he  said, — 

“ We  have  chosen  a private  spot,  and  a secret  hour,  sir, 
'for  our  meditations  ! ” 

Had  the  figure  possessed  the  impalpable  nature  of  an 
immaterial  being,  it  could  not  have  received  this  remark,  so 
startling  from  its  suddenness,  with  greater  apathy  than  did 
the  man  to  whom  it  was  addressed.  He  turned  slowly  to- 
wards the  speaker,  and  seemed  to  look  at  him  earnestly, 
before  he  answered,  in  a low,  menacing  voice, — 

“ There ’s  a granny  on  the  hill,  with  a gun  and  baggonet, 
walking  among  the  cannon,  and  if  he  hears  people  talking 
down  here,  he  ’ll  make  them  prisoners,  though  one  of  them 
should  be  Major  Lincoln.” 

“ Ha  ! Job,”  said  Lionel ; “ and  is  it  you  I meet  prowling 
about  like  a thief  at  night  ? On  what  errand  of  mischief 
have  you  been  sent  this  time  ? ’ ’ 

“ If  Job ’s  a thief  for  coming  to  see  the  graves  on  Copp’s,” 
returned  the  lad,  sullenly,”  there  ’s  two  of  them.” 

“ Well  answered,  boy  ! ” said  Lionel,  with  a smile.  “ But 
I repeat,  on  what  errand  have  you  returned  to  the  town  at 
this  unseasonable  and  suspicious  hour  ? ’ ’ 

“Job  loves  to  come  up  among  the  graves  before  the  cocks 
crow  ; they  say  the  dead  walk  when  living  men  sleep.” 
“And  would  you  hold  communion  with  the  dead,  then  ? ” 
“ ’Tis  sinful  to  ask  them  many  questions,  and  such  as  you 
do  put  should  be  made  in  the  Holy  Name,”  returned  the 
lad,  in  a tone  so  solemn,  that,  connected  with  the  place  and 
the  scene,  it  caused  the  blood  of  Lionel  to  thrill.  “But  Job 
loves  to  be  near  them,  to  use  him  to  the  damps,  agin  the  time 
he  shall  be  called  to  walk  himself  in  a sheet  at  midnight.” 

“ Hush  ! ” said  Lionel.  “ What  noise  is  that  ? ” 

Job  stood  a moment,  listening  as  intently  as  his  compan- 
ion, before  he  answered, — 

“ There  ’s  no  noise  but  the  moaning  of  the  wind  in  the 
bay,  or  the  sea  tumbling  on  the  beaches  of  the  islands.” 

“ ’T  is  neither,”  said  Lionel  ; “I  heard  the  low  hum  of  a 
hundred  voices,  or  my  ears  have  played  me  falsely.” 


Xioriel  ^Lincoln 


187 


4 4 Maybe  the  spirits  speak  to  each  other,  ’ ’ said  the  lad  ; 
44  they  say  their  voices  are  like  the  rushing  winds.” 

LJonel  passed  his  hand  across  his  brow,  and  endeavored 
to  recover  the  tone  of  his  mind,  which  had  been  strangely 
disordered  by  the  solemn  manner  of  his  companion,  and 
walked  slowly  from  the  spot,  closely  attended  by  the  silent 
changeling.  He  did  not  stop  until  he  had  reached  the  in- 
ner angle  of  the  wall  that  inclosed  the  field  of  the  dead, 
when  he  paused,  and,  leaning  on  the  fence,  again  listened 
intently. 

4 4 Boy,  I know  not  how  your  silly  conversation  may  have 
warped  my  brain,”  he  said,  “but  there  are  surely  strange 
and  unearthly  sounds  lingering  about  this  place,  to-night  ! 
By  heavens  ! there  is  another  rush  of  voices,  as  if  the  air 
above  the  water  were  filled  with  living  beings  ; and  then, 
again,  I think  I hear  a noise  as  if  heavy  weights  were  falling 
to  the  earth.” 

44  Ay,”  said  Job,  44  ’t  is  the  clods  on  the  coffins  ; the  dead 
are  going  into  their  graves  ag’in,  and  ’ t is  time  that  we 
should  leave  them  their  own  grounds.” 

Bionel  hesitated  no  longer,  but  he  rather  ran  than  walked 
from  the  spot,  with  a secret  horror  that,  at  another  moment, 
he  would  have  blushed  to  acknowledge  ; nor  did  he  perceive 
that  he  was  still  attended  by  Job,  until  he  had  descended 
some  distance  down  L,ynn  Street.  Here  he  was  addressed 
by  his  companion,  in  his  usually  quiet  and  unmeaning 
tones,— 

“There’s  the  house  that  the  governor  built,  who  went 
down  into  the  sea  for  money  ! ” he  said.  44  He  was  a poor 
boy  once,  like  Job,  and  now  they  say  his  grandson  is  a great 
lord,  and  the  king  knighted  the  grand’ ther  too.  It ’s  pretty 
much  the  same  thing  whether  a man  gets  his  money  out  of 
the  sea  or  out  of  the  earth  ; the  king  will  make  him  a lord 
for  it.” 

“You  hold  the  favors  of  royalty  cheap,  fellow,”  returned 
LJonel,  glancing  his  eye  carelessly  at  the  44  Phipps’  House,” 
as  he  passed  ; 44  you  forget  that  I am  to  be  some  day  one 
of  your  despised  knights  ! ” 

44 1 know  it,”  said  Job  ; 44  and  you  come  from  America, 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


1 88 


too.  It  seems  to  me  that  all  the  poor  boys  go  from  Amer- 
ica to  the  king  to  be  great  lords,  and  all  the  sons  of  the 
great  lords  come  to  America  to  be  made  poor  boys.  Nab 
says  Job  is  the  son  of  a great  lord,  too  ! ” 

“ Then  Nab  is  as  great  a fool  as  her  child,”  said  Lionel ; 
“ but,  boy,  I would  see  your  mother  in  the  morning,  and  I 
expect  you  to  let  me  know  at  what  hour  I may  visit  her.” 
Job  did  not  answer,  and  Lionel,  on  turning  his  head,  per- 
ceived that  he  was  suddenly  deserted  by  the  changeling,  who 
was  already  gliding  back  towards  his  favorite  haunt  among 
the  graves.  Vexed  at  the  wild  humors  of  the  lad,  Lionel 
hastened  to  his  quarters,  and  threw  himself  in  his  bed, 
though  he  heard  the  loud  cries  of  “ All ’s  well ! ” again  and 
again,  before  the  strange  phantasies,  which  continued  to 
cross  his  mind,  would  permit  him  to  obtain  the  rest  he 
sought. 


CHAPTER  XV. 

“ We  are  finer  gentlemen,  no  doubt,  than  the  plain  farmers  we  are 
about  to  encounter.  Our  hats  carry  a smarter  cock,  our  swords  hang 
more  gracefully  by  our  sides,  and  we  make  an  easier  figure  in  a ball- 
room ; but  let  it  be  remembered,  that  the  most  finished  maccaroni 
amongst  us,  would  pass  for  an  arrant  clown  at  Pekin.” 

Letter  from  a Veteran  Officer , etc . 

WHEN  the  heavy  sleep  of  morning  fell  upon  his 
senses,  visions  of  the  past  and  future  mingled 
with  wild  confusion  in  the  dreams  of  the 
youthful  soldier.  The  form  of  his  father 
stood  before  him,  as  he  had  known  it  in  his  childhood,  fair 
in  the  proportions  and  vigor  of  manhood,  regarding  him 
with  those  eyes  of  benignant,  but  melancholy  affection, 
which  characterized  their  expression  after  he  had  become 
the  sole  jo}^  of  his  widowed  parent.  While  his  heart  was 
warming  at  the  sight,  the  figure  melted  away,  and  was 
succeeded  by  fantastic  phantoms,  which  appeared  to  dance 
among  the  graves  on  Copp’s,  led  along  in  those  gambols, 
which  partook  of  the  ghastly  horrors  of  the  dead,  by  Job 
Pray,  who  glided  among  the  tombs  like  a being  of  another 
world.  Sudden  and  loud  thunder  then  burst  upon  them, 
and  the  .shadows  fled  into  their  secret  places,  from  whence 
he  could  see,  ever  and  anon,  some  glassy  eyes  and  spectral 
faces,  peering  out  upon  him,  as  if  conscious  of  the  power 
they  possessed  to  chill  the  blood  of  the  living.  -His  visions 
now  became  painfully  distinct,  and  his  sleep  was  oppressed 
with  their  vividness,  when  his  senses  burst  their  unnatural 
bonds,  and  he  awoke.  The  air  of  morning  was  breathing- 
through  his  open  curtains,  and  the  light  of  day  had  already 
shed  itself  upon  the  dusky  roofs  of  the  town.  Eionel  arose 

189 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


I90 


from  his  bed,  and  had  paced  his  chamber  several  times,  in  a 
vain  effort  to  shake  off  the  images  that  had  haunted  his 
slumbers,  when  the  sounds  which  broke  upon  the  stillness 
of  the  air  became  too  plain  to  be  longer  mistaken  by  a prac- 
tised ear. 

“ Ha  ! ” he  uttered  to  himself,  “ I have  been  dreaming 
but  by  halves  ; these  are  the  sounds  of  no  fancied  tempest, 
but  cannon,  speaking  most  plainly  to  the  soldier  ! ” 

He  opened  his  window  and  looked  out  upon  the  surround- 
ing scene.  The  roar  of  artillery  was  now  quick  and  heavy, 
and  Lionel  bent  his  eyes  about  him  to  discover  the  cause  of 
this  unusual  occurrence.  It  had  been  the  policy  of  Gage  to 
await  the  arrival  of  his  reinforcements  before  he  struck  a 
blow  which  was  intended  to  be  decisive  ; and  the  Americans 
were  well  known  to  be  too  scantily  supplied  with  the  muni- 
tions of  war,  to  waste  a single  charge  of  powder  in  any  of  the 
vain  attacks  of  modern  sieges.  A knowledge  of  these  facts 
gave  an  additional  interest  to  the  curiosity,  with  which 
Major  Lincoln  endeavored  to  penetrate  the  mystery  of  so 
singular  a disturbance.  Window  after  window  in  the  adja- 
cent buildings  soon  exhibited,  like  his  own,  its  wondering 
and  alarmed  spectator.  Here  and  there  a half-dressed  sol- 
dier, or  a busy  townsman,  was  seen  hurrying  along  the 
silent  streets,  with  steps  that  denoted  the  eagerness  of  his 
curiosity.  Women  began  to  rush  wildly  from  their  dwell- 
ings, and  then,  as  the  sounds  broke  on  their  ears  with  tenfold 
heaviness  in  the  open  air,  they  shrunk  back  into  £heir  hab- 
itations in  pallid  dismay.  Lionel  called  to  three  or  four  of 
the  men,  as  they  hurried  by  ; but,  turning  their  eyes  wildly 
towards  his  window,  they  passed  on  without  answering, 
as  if  the  emergency  were  too  pressing  to  admit  of  speech. 
Finding  his  repeated  inquiries  fruitless,  he  hastily  dressed 
himself,  and  descended  to  the  street.  As  he  left  his  own 
door,  a half-clad  artillerist  hurried  past  him,  adjusting  his 
garments  with  one  hand,  and  bearing  in  the  other  some 
of  the  lesser  implements  of  the  particular  corps  in  which  he 
served. 

“What  means  the  firing,  sergeant,”  demanded  Lionel, 
“ and  whither  do  you  hasten  with  those  fusees? ” 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


191 


‘‘The  rebels,  your  honor,  the  rebels  ! ” returned  the  sol- 
dier looking  back  to  speak,  without  ceasing  his  speed  ; ‘ ‘ and 
I go  to  my  guns  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ The  rebels  ! ’ * repeated  Lionel ; ‘ ‘ what  can  we  have  to 
fear  from  a mob  of  countrymen,  in  such  a position  ? That 
fellow  has  slept  from  his  post,  and  apprehensions  for  himself 
mingle  with  this  zeal  for  his  king  ! ’ ’ 

The  townspeople  now  began  to  pour  from  their  dwell- 
ings in  scores  ; and  Lionel  imitated  their  example,  and  took 
his  course  towards  the  adjacent  height  of  Beacon  Hill.  He 
toiled  his  way  up  the  steep  ascent,  in  company  with  twenty 
more,  without  exchanging  a syllable  with  men  who  appeared 
as  much  astonished  as  himself  at  this  early  interruption  of 
their  slumbers,  and  in  a few  minutes  he  stood  on  a little 
grassy  platform,  surrounded  by  a hundred  interested  gazers. 
The  sun  had  just  lifted  the  thin  veil  of  mist  from  the  bosom 
of  the  waters,  and  the  eye  was  permitted  to  range  over  a 
wide  field  beneath  the  light  vapor.  Several  vessels  were 
moored  in  the  channels  of  the  Charles  and  Mystic,  to  cover 
the  northern  approaches  to  the  place  ; and  as  he  beheld  the 
column  of  white  smoke  that  was  wreathing  about  the  masts 
of  a frigate  among  them,  Lionel  was  no  longer  at  a loss  to 
comprehend  whence  the  firing  proceeded.  While  he  was 
yet  gazing,  uncertain  of  the  reasons  which  demanded  this 
show  of  war,  immense  fields  of  smoke  burst  from  the  side 
of  a ship  of  the  line,  who  also  opened  her  deep-mouthed 
cannon,  and  presently  her  example  was  followed  by  several 
floating  batteries,  and  lighter  vessels,  until  the  wide  amphi- 
theatre of  hills  that  encircled  Boston  was  filled  with  the 
echoes  of  a hundred  pieces  of  artillery. 

“ What  can  it  mean,  sir?  ” exclaimed  a young  officer  of 
his  own  regiment,  addressing  Major  Lincoln  ; “the  sailors 
are  in  downright  earnest,  and  they  scale  their  guns  with 
shot,  I know,  by  the  rattling  of  the  reports.” 

“I  can  boast  of  a vision  no  better  than  your  own,”  re- 
turned Lionel;  “for  no  enemy  can  I see.  As  the  guns 
seem  pointed  at  the  opposite  peninsula,  it  is  probable  a party 
of  the  Americans  are  attempting  to  destroy  the  grass  which 
lies  newly  mown  in  the  meadows.” 


192 


Xfonel  Xincoln 


The  young  officer  was  in  the  act  of  assenting  to  this  con- 
jecture, when  a voice  was  heard  above  their  heads,  shout- 
ing,— 

“ There  goes  a gun  from  Copp’s  ! They  need  n’t  think  to 
frighten  the  people  with  their  rake-helly  noises  ; let  them 
blaze  away  till  the  dead  get  out  of  their  graves  ; the  Bay-men 
will  keep  the  hill  ! ’ ’ 

Every  eye  was  immediately  turned  upward,  and  the  won- 
dering and  amused  spectators  discovered  Job  Pray,  seated  in 
the  grate  of  the  beacon,  his  countenance,  usually  so  vacant, 
gleaming  with  exultation,  while  he  continued  waving  his 
hat  high  in  the  air,  as  gun  after  gun  was  added  to  the  up- 
roar of  the  cannonade. 

‘ ‘ How  now,  fellow  ! 9 ’ exclaimed  Lionel ; ‘ ‘ what  see  you, 
and  where  are  the  Bay-men  of  whom  you  speak  ? 9 ’ 

“Where?”  returned  the  simpleton,  clapping  his  hands 
with  childish  delight.  “Why,  where  they  came  at  dark 
midnight,  and  where  they  ’ll  stand  at  open  noonday  ! The 
Bay-men  can  look  into  the  windows  of  old  Funnel  at  last  ; 
and  now  let  the  reg’lars  come  on,  and  they  ’ll  teach  the  god- 
less murderers  the  law.” 

Lionel,  a little  irritated  with  the  bold  language  of  Job, 
called  to  him,  in  an  angry  voice, — 

“Come  down  from  that  perch,  fellow,  and  explain  your- 
self, or  this  grenadier  shall  lift  you  from  your  seat,  and 
transfer  you  to  the  post  for  a little  of  that  wholesome  correc- 
tion which  you  need.” 

“You  promised  that  the  grannies  should  never  flog  Job 
ag’in,”  said  the  changeling,  crouching  down  in  the  grate, 
whence  he  looked  out  at  his  threatened  chastiser  with  a 
lowering  and  sullen  eye;  “and  Job  agreed  to  run  your 
arr’nds,  and  not  take  any  of  the  king’s  crowns  in  pay.” 

“ Come  down,  then,  this  instant,  and  I will  remember  the 
compact.” 

Comforted  by  this  assurance,  which  was  made  in  a more 
friendly  tone,  Job  threw  himself  carelessly  from  his  iron  seat, 
and  clinging  to  the  post,  he  slid  swiftly  to  the  earth,  where 
Major  Lincoln  immediately  arrested  him  by  the  arm,  and 
demanded, — 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


193 


“ Where  are  those  Bay-men,  I once  more  ask? ” 

“ There  ! ” repeated  Job,  pointing  over  the  low  roofs  of  the 
town,  in  the  direction  of  the  opposite  peninsula.  “They 
dug  their  cellar  on  Breed’s,  and  now  they  are  fixing  the  un- 
derpinning and  next  you  ’llsee  what  a raising  they  ’ll  invite 
the  people  to  ! ” 

The  instant  the  spot  was  named,  all  those  eyes  which  had 
hitherto  gazed  at  the  vessels  themselves,  instead  of  searching 
for  the  object  of  their  hostility,  were  turned  on  the  green 
eminence  which  rose  a little  to  the  right  of  the  village  of 
Charlestown,  and  every  doubt  was  at  once  removed  by  the 
discovery.  The  high,  conical  summit  of  Bunker  Hill  lay 
naked  and  unoccupied,  as  on  the  preceding  day  ; but  on  the 
extremity  of  a more  humble  ridge,  which  extended  within  a 
short  distance  of  the  water,  a low  bank  of  earth  had  been 
thrown  up,  for  purposes  which  no  military  eye  could  mis- 
take. This  redoubt,  small  and  inartificial  as  it  was,  com- 
manded by  its  position  the  whole  of  the  inner  harbor  of 
Boston,  and  even  endangered,  in  some  measure,  the  occu- 
pants of  the  town  itself.  It  was  the  sudden  appearance  of 
this  magical  mound,  as  the  mists  of  the  morning  had  dis- 
persed, which  roused  the  slumbering  seamen  ; and  it  had 
already  become  the  target  of  all  the  guns  of  the  shipping  in 
the  bay.  Amazement  at  the  temerity  of  their  countrymen 
held  the  townsmen  silent,  while  Major  Lincoln,  and  the  few 
officers  who  stood  nigh  him,  saw,  at  a glance,  that  this  step 
on  the  part  of  their  adversaries  would  bring  the  affairs  of  the 
leaguer  to  an  instant  crisis.  In  vain  they  turned  their  won- 
dering looks  on  the  neighboring  eminence,  and  around  the 
different  points  of  the  peninsula,  in  quest  of  those  places  of 
support  with  which  soldiers  generally  intrench  their  defences. 
The  husbandmen  opposed  to  them  had  seized  upon  the  point 
best  calculated  to  annoy  their  foes,  without  regard  to  the 
consequences  ; and  in  a few  short  hours,  favored  by  the 
mantle  of  night,  had  thrown  up  their  work  with  a dexterity 
that  was  only  exceeded  by  their  boldness.  The  truth  flashed 
across  the  brain  of  Major  Lincoln  with  his  first  glance,  and 
he  felt  his  cheeks  glow  as  he  remembered  the  low  and  in- 
distinct murmurs  which  the  night  air  had  wafted  to  his  ears, 
*3 


194 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


and  those  unexplicable  fancies  which  had  even  continued  to 
haunt  him  till  dispersed  by  truth  and  the  light  of  day.  Mo- 
tioning to  Job  to  follow  he  left  the  hill  with  a hurried  step  ; 
and  when  they  gained  the  common,  he  turned  and  said 
sternly,  to  his  companion, — 

“ Fellow,  you  have  been  privy  to  this  midnight  work  ! ” 
“Job  has  enough  to  do  in  the  day,  without  laboring  in 
the  night,  when  none  but  the  dead  are  out  of  their  places 
of  rest,”  returned  the  lad,  with  a look  of  mental  imbe- 
cility which  immediately  disarmed  the  resentment  of  the 
other. 

Lionel  smiled  as  he  again  remembered  his  own  weakness, 
and  repeated  to  himself, — 

4 ‘ The  dead  ! ay,  these  are  the  works  of  the  living ; and 
bold  men  are  they  who  have  dared  to  do  the  deed.  But  tell 
me,  Job, — for  ’t  is  in  vain  to  attempt  deceiving  me  any 
longer, — what  number  of  Americans  did  you  leave  on  the 
hill,  when  you  crossed  the  Charles  to  visit  the  graves  on 
Copp’s,  the  past  night?  ” 

“ Both  hills  were  crowded,”  returned  the  other  ; “ Breed’s 
with  the  people,  and  Copp’s  with  the  ghosts ; Job  believes 
the  dead  rose  to  see  their  children  digging  so  nigh  them  ! ’ ’ 
“ ’T  is  probable,”  said  Lionel,  who  believed  it  wisest  to 
humor  the  wild  conceits  of  the  lad,  in  order  to  disarm  his 
cunning ; 4 4 but,  though  the  dead  are  invisible,  the  living 
maybe  counted.” 

“Job  did  count  five  hundred  men,  marching  over  the  nose 
of  Bunker,  by  starlight,  with  their  picks  and  spades ; and 
then  he  stopped,  for  he  forgot  whether  seven  or  eight  hundred 
came  next.” 

“ And  after  you  ceased  to  count,  did  many  others  pass  ? ” 
“ The  Bay  colony  is  n’t  so  poorly  off  for  men,  that  it  can’t 
muster  a thousand  at  a raising.” 

4 4 But  you  had  a master  workman  on  the  occasion  ; was  it 
the  wolf  hunter  of  Connecticut  ? ’ ’ 

4 4 There  is  no  occasion  to  go  from  the  province  to  find  a 
workman  to  lay  out  a cellar  ! Dickey  Gridley  is  a Boston 
boy  ! ” 

44  Ah  ! he  is  the  chief!  We  can  have  nothing  to  fear, 


Xionel  Xlncoln 


m 


then,  since  the  Connecticut  woodsman  is  not  at  their 
head  ! ’ ’ 

“ Do  you  think  old  Prescott,  of  Pepperel,  will  quit  the 
hill  while  he  has  a kernel  of  powder  to  burn  ? No,  no, 
Major  Lincoln,  Ralph  himself  ain’t  a stouter  warrior ; and 
you  can’t  frighten  Ralph  ! ” 

“ But  if  they  fire  their  cannon  often,  their  small  stock  of 
ammunition  will  soon  be  consumed,  and  then  they  must  un- 
avoidably run.” 

Job  laughed  tauntingly,  and  with  an  appearance  of  high 
scorn,  before  he  answered, — 

“ Yes,  if  the  Bay-men  were  as  dumb  as  the  king’s  troops, 
and  used  such  big  guns  ! But  the  cannon  of  the  colony 
want  but  little  brimstone,  and  there’s  but  a few  of  them. 
Let  the  rake-hellies  go  up  to  Breed’s, — the  people  will  teach 
them  the  law  ! ” 

Lionel  had  now  obtained  all  he  expected  to  learn  from 
the  simpleton  concerning  the  force  and  condition  of  the 
Americans ; and  as  the  moments  were  too  precious  to  be 
wasted  in  vain  discourse,  he  bid  the  lad  repair  to  his  quarters 
that  night,  and  left  him.  On  entering  his  own  lodgings, 
Major  Lincoln  shut  himself  up  in  his  private  apartment, 
and  passed  several  hours  in  writing,  and  examining  im- 
portant papers.  One  letter,  in  particular,  was  written, 
read,  torn,  and  re-written,  five  or  six  times,  until  at  length, 
he  placed  his  seal,  and  directed  the  important  paper  with  a 
sort  of  carelessness  that  denoted  his  patience  was  exhausted 
by  repeated  trials.  These  documents  wTere  intrusted  to 
Meriton,  with  orders  to  deliver  them  to  their  several  ad- 
dresses, unless  countermanded  before  the  following  day  ; and 
the  young  man  hastily  swallowed  a late  and  light  breakfast. 
While  shut  up  in  his  closet,  Lionel  had  several  times  thrown 
aside  his  pen  to  listen,  as  the  hum  of  the  place  penetrated  to 
his  retirement,  and  announced  the  excitement  and  bustle 
which  pervaded  the  streets  of  the  town.  Having  at  length 
completed  the  task  he  had  assigned  himself,  he  caught  up 
his  hat,  and  took  his  way,  with  hasty  steps,  into  the  centre 
of  the  place. 

Cannon  were  rattling  over  the  rough  pavements,  followed 


196 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


by  ammunition-wagons,  and  officers  and  men  of  the  artil- 
lery were  seen  in  swift  pursuit  of  their  pieces.  Aide-de- 
camps  were  riding  furiously  through  the  streets,  charged 
with  important  messages ; and  here  and  there  an  officer 
might  be  seen  issuing  from  his  quarters,  with  a countenance 
in  which  manly  pride  struggled  powerfully  with  inward 
dejection,  as  he  caught  the  last  glance  of  anguish,  which 
followed  his  retiring  form,  from  eyes  that  had  been  used  to 
meet  his  own  with  looks  of  confidence  and  love.  There 
was,  however,  but  little  time  to  dwell  on  these  flitting 
glimpses  of  domestic  woe,  amid  the  general  bustle  and  glit- 
ter of  the  scene.  Now  and  then  the  strains  of  martial 
music  broke  up  through  the  windings  of  the  crooked  ave- 
nues, and  detachments  of  the  troops  wheeled  by,  on  their 
way  to  the  appointed  place  of  embarkation.  While  Lionel 
stood  a moment  at  the  corner  of  a street,  admiring  the  firm 
movement  of  a body  of  grenadiers,  his  eye  fell  on  the  pow- 
erful frame  and  rigid  features  of  M’Fuse,  marching  at  the 
head  of  his  company  with  that  gravity  which  regarded  the 
accuracy  of  the  step  amongst  the  most  important  incidents 
of  life.  At  a short  distance  from  him  was  Job  Pray,  timing 
his  paces  to  the  tread  of  the  soldier,  and  regarding  the  gal- 
lant show  with  stupid  admiration,  while  his  ear  uncon- 
sciously drank  the  inspiriting  music  of  their  band.  As  this 
fine  body  of  men  passed  on,  it  was  immediately  succeeded 
by  a battalion  in  which  Lionel  instantly  recognized  the 
facings  of  his  own  regiment.  The  warm-hearted  Polwarth 
led  his  forward  files,  and,  waving  his  hand,  he  cried, — 

“God  bless  you,  Leo  ! God  bless  you!  we  shall  make 
a fair  stand-up  fight  of  this ; there  is  an  end  of  all  stag- 
hunting.’  ’ 

The  notes  of  the  horns  rose  above  his  voice,  and  Lionel 
could  do  no  more  than  return  his  cordial  salute ; when, 
recalled  to  his  purpose  by  the  sight  of  his  comrades,  he 
turned,  and  pursued  his  way  to  the  quarters  of  the  com- 
mander-in-chief. 

The  gate  of  Province  House  was  thronged  with  military 
men  ; some  waiting  for  admittance,  and  others  entering  and 
departing  with  the  air  of  those  who  were  charged  with  the 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


197 


execution  of  matters  of  the  deepest  moment.  The  name 
of  Major  Lincoln  was  hardly  announced  before  an  aid  ap- 
peared to  conduct  him  into  the  presence  of  the  governor, 
with  a politeness  and  haste  that  several  gentlemen,  who  had 
been  in  waiting  for  hours,  deemed  in  a trifling  degree  unjust. 

Lionel,  however,  having  little  to  do  with  murmurs  which 
he  did  not  hear,  followed  his  conductor,  and  was  immedi- 
ately ushered  into  the  apartment,  where  a council  of  war 
had  just  closed  its  deliberations.  On  the  threshold  of  its 
door  he  was  compelled  to  give  way  to  an  officer,  who  was 
departing  in  haste,  and  whose  powerful  frame  seemed  bent 
a little  in  the  intensity  of  thought,  as  his  dark,  military 
countenance  lighted  for  an  instant  with  the  salutation  he 
returned  to  the  low  bow  of  the  young  soldier.  Around 
this  chief  a group  of  younger  men  immediately  clustered, 
and  as  they  departed  in  company,  Lionel  was  enabled  to 
gather,  from  their  conversation,  that  they  took  their  way 
for  the  field  of  battle.  The  room  was  filled  with  officers 
of  high  rank  ; though  here  and  there  was  to  be  seen  a man 
in  civil  attire,  whose  disappointed  and  bitter  looks  an- 
nounced him  to  be  one  of  those  mandamus  counsellors 
whose  evil  advice  had  hastened  the  mischief  their  wisdom 
could  never  repair.  From  out  a small  circle  of  these 
mortified  civilians,  the  unpretending  person  of  Gage  ad- 
vanced to  meet  Lionel,  forming  a marked  contrast,  by  the 
simplicity  of  its  dress,  to  the  military  splendor  that  was 
glittering  around  him. 

“ In  what  can  I oblige  Major  Lincoln?  ” he  said,  taking 
the  young  man  by  the  hand  cordially,  as  if  glad  to  get  rid 
of  the  troublesome  counsellors  he  had  so  unceremoniously 
quitted. 

“ 'Wolfe's  own'  has  just  passed  me,  on  its  way  to  the 
boats,  and  I have  ventured  to  intrude  on  your  excellency  to 
inquire  if  it  were  not  time  its  major  resumed  his  duty." 

A shade  of  thought  was  seated  for  a moment  on  the 
placid  features  of  the  general,  and  he  then  answered,  with 
a friendly  smile, — 

“ ’Twill  be  no  more  than  an  affair  of  outposts,  and  must 
be  quickly  ended.  But  should  I grant  the  request  of  every 


198 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


brave  young  man  whose  spirit  is  up  to-day,  it  might  cost 
his  majesty’s  service  the  life  of  some  officer  that  would 
make  the  purchase  of  the  pile  of  earth  too  dear.” 

‘ ‘ But  may  I not  be  permitted  to  say,  that  the  family  of 
Lincoln  is  of  the  province,  and  its  example  should  not  be 
lost  on  such  an  occasion  ? ” 

‘ ‘ The  loyalty  of  the  colonies  is  too  well  represented  here 
to  need  the  sacrifice,”  said  Gage,  glancing  his  eyes  carelessly 
at  the  expecting  group  behind  him.  “My  council  have 
decided  on  the  officers  to  be  employed,  and  I regret  that 
Major  Lincoln’s  name  was  omitted,  since  I know  it  will 
give  him  pain ; but  valuable  lives  are  not  to  be  lightly  and 
unnecessarily  exposed.” 

Lionel  bowed  in  submission  ; and,  after  communicating 
the  little  he  had  gathered  from  Job  Pray,  he  turned  away, 
and  found  himself  near  another  officer  of  high  rank,  who 
smiled  as  he  observed  his  disappointed  countenance,  and, 
taking  him  by  the  arm,  led  him  from  the  room,  with  a free- 
dom suited  to  his  fine  figure  and  easy  air. 

“Then,  like  myself,  Lincoln,  you  are  not  to  battle  for 
the  king  to-day,”  he  said,  on  gaining  the  antechamber. 
“ Howe  has  the  luck  of  the  occasion,  if  there  can  be  luck  in 
so  vulgar  an  affair.  But  allons ; accompany  me  to  Copp’s, 
as  a spectator,  since  they  deny  us  parts  in  the  drama ; and 
perhaps  we  may  pick  up  materials  for  a pasquinade,  though 
not  for  an  epic.” 

“Pardon  me,  General  Burgoyne,”  said  Lionel,  “if  I view 
the  matter  with  more  serious  eyes  than  yourself.” 

‘ ‘ Ah  ! I had  forgot  that  you  were  a follower  of  Percy  in 
the  hunt  of  Lexington  ! ” interrupted  the  other;  “we  will 
call  it  a tragedy,  then,  if  it  better  suits  your  humor.  For 
myself,  Lincoln,  I weary  of  these  crooked  streets  and 
gloomy  houses,  and,  having  some  taste  for  the  poetry  of 
nature,  would  have  long  since  looked  out  upon  the  deserted 
fields  of  these  husbandmen,  had  the  authority,  as  well  as 
the  inclination,  rested  with  me.  But  Clinton  is  joining  us  ; 
he,  too,  is  for  Copp’s,  where  we  can  all  take  a lesson  in 
arms,  by  studying  the  manner  in  which  Howe  wields  his 
battalions.” 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


199 


A soldier  of  middle  age  now  joined  them,  whose  stout 
frame,  while  it  wanted  the  grace  and  ease  of  the  gentleman 
who  still  held  Lionel  by  the  arm,  bore  a martial  character 
to  which  the  look  of  the  quiet  and  domestic  Gage  was  a 
stranger ; and,  followed  by  their  several  attendants,  the 
whole  party  immediately  left  the  government-house  to  take 
their  destined  position  on  the  eminence  so  often  mentioned. 

As  they  entered  the  street,  Burgoyne  relinquished  the 
arm  of  his  companion,  and  moved  with  becoming  dignity  by 
the  side  of  his  brother  general.  Lionel  gladly  availed  him- 
self of  this  alteration,  to  withdraw  a little  from  the  group, 
whose  steps  he  followed  at  such  a distance  as  permitted 
him  to  observe  those  exhibitions  of  feeling,  on  the  part  of 
the  inhabitants,  which  the  pride  of  the  others  induced  them 
to  overlook.  Pallid  and  anxious  female  faces  were  gleam- 
ing out  upon  them  from  every  window,  while  the  roofs  of 
the  houses,  and  the  steeples  of  the  churches,  were  beginning 
to  throng  with  more  daring,  and  equally  interested  spec* 
tators.  The  drums  no  longer  rolled  along  the  narrow 
streets,  though,  occasionally,  the  shrill  strain  of  a fife  was 
heard  from  the  water,  announcing  the  movements  of  the 
troops  to  the  opposite  peninsula.  Over  all  was  heard  the 
incessant  roaring  of  the  artillery,  which,  untired,  had  not 
ceased  to  rumble  in  the  air  since  the  appearance  of  light, 
until  the  ear,  accustomed  to  its  presence,  had  learnt  to  dis- 
tinguish the  lesser  sounds  we  have  recorded. 

As  the  party  descended  into  the  lower  passages  of  the 
town,  it  appeared  deserted  by  everything  having  life ; the 
open  windows  and  neglected  doors  betraying  the  urgency 
of  the  feelings  which  had  called  the  population  to  situations 
more  favorable  for  observing  the  approaching  contest.  This 
appearance  of  intense  curiosity  excited  the  sympathies  of 
even  the  old  and  practised  soldiers  ; and,  quickening  their 
paces,  the  whole  soon  rose  from  among  the  gloomy  edifices 
to  the  open  and  unobstructed  view  from  the  hill. 

The  whole  scene  now  lay  before  them.  Nearly  in  their 
front  was  the  village  of  Charlestown,  with  its  deserted 
streets,  and  silent  roofs,  looking  like  a place  of  the  dead ; 
or,  if  the  signs  of  life  were  visible  within  its  open  avenues, 


200 


Xtonel  Lincoln 


’t  was  merely  some  figure  moving  swiftly  in  the  solitude, 
like  one  who  hastened  to  quit  the  devoted  spot.  On  the  op- 
posite point  of  the  southeastern  face  of  the  peninsula,  and  at 
the  distance  of  a thousand  yards,  the  ground  was  already 
covered  by  masses  of  human  beings  in  scarlet,  with  their 
arms  glittering  in  a noonday  sun.  Between  the  two, 
though  in  the  more  immediate  vicinity  of  the  silent  town, 
the  rounded  ridge  already  described  rose  abruptly  from  a 
flat  that  was  bounded  by  the  water,  until,  having  attained 
an  elevation  of  some  fifty  or  sixty  feet,  it  swelled  gradually 
to  the  little  crest,  where  was  planted  the  humble  object 
that  had  occasioned  all  this  commotion.  The  meadows  on 
the  right  were  still  peaceful  and  smiling,  as  in  the  most 
quiet  days  of  the  province,  though  the  excited  fancy  of 
Lionel  imagined  that  a sullen  stillness  lingered  about  the 
neglected  kilns  in  their  front,  and  over  the  whole  landscape, 
that  was  in  gloomy  consonance  with  the  approaching  scene. 
Far  on  the  left,  across  the  waters  of  the  Charles,  the  Amer- 
ican camp  had  poured  forth  its  thousands  to  the  hills  ; and 
the  whole  population  of  the  country,  for  many  miles  inland, 
had  gathered  to  a point,  to  witness  a struggle  charged  with 
the  fate  of  their  nation.  Beacon  Hill  rose  from  out  the 
appalling  silence  of  the  town  of  Boston,  like  a pyramid  of 
living  faces,  with  every  eye  fixed  on  the  fatal  point ; and 
men  hung  along  the  yards  of  the  shipping,  or  were  sus- 
pended on  cornices,  cupolas,  and  steeples,  in  thoughtless 
security,  while  every  other  sense  was  lost  in  the  absorbing 
interest  of  the  sight.  The  vessels  of  war  had  hauled  deep 
into  the  rivers,  or,  more  properly,  those  narrow  arms  of  the 
sea  which  formed  the  peninsula,  and  sent  their  iron  missiles 
with  unwearied  industry  across  the  low  passage  which  alone 
opened  the  means  of  communication  between  the  self- 
devoted  yeoman  on  the  hill,  and  their  distant  countrymen. 
While  battalion  landed  after  battalion  on  the  point,  cannon- 
balls from  the  battery  of  Copp’s  and  the  vessels  of  war  were 
glancing  up  the  natural  glacis  that  surrounded  the  redoubt, 
burying  themselves  in  its  earthen  parapet,  or  plunging  with 
violence  into  the  deserted  sides  of  the  loftier  height  which 
lay  a few  hundred  yards  in  its  rear  ; and  the  black  and 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


201 


smoking  bombs  appeared  to  hover  above  the  spot,  as  if 
pausing  to  select  the  places  in  which  to  plant  their  deadly 
combustibles. 

Notwithstanding  these  appalling  preparations  and  cease- 
less annoyances,  throughout  that  long  and  anxious  morning, 
the  stout  husbandmen  on  the  hill  had  never  ceased  their 
steady  efforts  to  maintain,  to  the  uttermost  extremity,  the 
post  they  had  so  daringly  assumed.  In  vain  the  English 
exhausted  every  means  to  disturb  their  stubborn  foes  ; the 
pick,  the  shovel,  and  the  spade  continued  to  perform  their 
offices  ; and  mound  rose  after  mound,  amidst  the  din  and 
danger  of  the  cannonade,  steadily,  and  as  well  as  if  the  fan- 
ciful conceits  of  Job  Pray  embraced  their  real  objects,  and  the 
laborers  were  employed  in  the  peaceful  pursuits  of  their  ordi- 
nary lives.  This  firmness,  however,  was  not  like  the  proud 
front  which  high  training  can  impart  to  the  most  common 
mind  ; for,  ignorant  of  the  glare  of  military  show  ; in  the 
simple  and  rude  vestments  of  their  calling  ; armed  with  such 
weapons  as  they  had  seized  from  the  hooks  above  their 
own  mantels  ; and  without  even  a banner  to  wave  its  cheer- 
ing folds  above  their  heads,  they  stood,  sustained  only  by 
the  righteousness  of  their  cause,  and  those  deep  moral  prin- 
ciples which  they  had  received  from  their  fathers,  and  which 
they  intended  this  day  should  show  were  to  be  transmitted 
untarnished  to  their  children.  It  was  afterwards  known 
that  they  endured  their  labors  and  their  dangers  even  in 
want  of  that  sustenance  which  is  so  essential  to  support 
animal  spirits  in  moments  of  calmness  and  ease  ; while  their 
enemies,  on  the  point,  awaiting  the  arrival  of  their  latest 
bands,  were  securely  devouring  a meal,  which  to  hundreds 
amongst  them  proved  to  be  their  last.  The  fatal  instant  now 
seemed  approaching.  A general  movement  was  seen  among 
the  battalions  of  the  British,  who  began  to  spread  along  the 
shore,  under  cover  of  the  brow  of  the  hill — the  lingering 
boats  having  arrived  with  the  rear  of  their  detachments — 
and  officers  hurried  from  regiment  to  regiment  with  the  final 
mandates  of  their  chief.  At  this  moment  a body  of  Ameri- 
cans appeared  on  the  crown  of  Bunker  Hill,  and  descending 
swiftly  by  the  road,  disappeared  in  the  meadows  to  the  left 


202 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


of  their  own  redoubt.  This  band  was  followed  by  others, 
who,  like  themselves,  had  broken  through  the  dangers  of  the 
narrow  pass,  by  braving  the  fire  of  the  shipping,  and  who 
also  hurried  to  join  their  comrades  on  the  lowland.  The 
British  general  determined  at  once  to  anticipate  the  arrival 
of  further  reinforcements,  and  gave  forth  the  long-expected 
order  to  prepare  for  the  attack. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

“ Th’  imperious  Briton,  on  the  well-fought  ground, 

No  cause  for  joy,  or  wanton  triumph,  found  ; 

But  saw,  with  grief,  their  dreams  of  conquest  vain, 

Felt  the  deep  wounds,  and  mourned  their  vet’rans  slain.0 

Humphreys. 

THE  Americans  had  made  a show,  in  the  course  of 
that  fearful  morning,  of  returning  the  fire  of 
their  enemies,  by  throwing  a few  shot  from  their 
light  field-pieces,  as  if  in  mockery  of  the  tremen- 
dous cannonade  which  they  sustained.  But  as  the  mo* 
ment  of  severest  trial  approached,  the  same  awful  stillness 
which  had  settled  upon  the  deserted  streets  of  Charles- 
town hovered  around  the  redoubt.  On  the  meadows,  to 
its  left,  the  recently  arrived  bands  hastily  threw  the  rails  of 
two  fences  into  one,  and,  covering  the  whole  with  the  mown 
grass  that  surrounded  them,  they  posted  themselves  along 
the  frail  defence,  which  answered  no  better  purpose  than  to 
conceal  their  weakness  from  their  adversaries.  Behind  this 
characteristic  rampart,  several  bodies  of  husbandmen,  from 
the  neighboring  provinces  of  New  Hampshire  and  Connecti- 
cut, lay  on  their  arms,  in  sullen  expectation.  Their  line 
extended  from  the  shore  to  the  base  of  the  ridge,  where  it 
terminated  several  hundred  feet  behind  the  works  ; leaving 
a wide  opening,  in  a diagonal  direction,  between  the  fence 
and  an  earthen  breastwork,  which  ran  a short  distance 
down  the  declivity  of  the  hill,  from  the  northeastern  angle 
of  the  redoubt.  A few  hundred  yards  in  the  rear  of  this  rude 
disposition,  the  naked  crest  of  Bunker  Hill  rose,  unoccupied 
and  undefended  ; and  the  streams  of  the  Charles  and  Mystic, 


204 


Xiottel  Xfncolrt 


sweeping  around  its  base,  approached  so  near  each  other  as 
to  blend  the  sounds  of  their  rippling.  It  was  across  this  low 
and  narrow  isthmus  that  the  royal  frigates  poured  a stream 
of  fire  that  never  ceased,  while  around  it  hovered  the  nu- 
merous parties  of  the  undisciplined  Americans,  hesitating  to 
attempt  the  dangerous  passage. 

In  this  manner  Gage  had,  in  a great  degree,  surrounded 
the  devoted  peninsula  with  his  power  ; and  the  bold  men, 
who  had  so  daringly  planted  themselves  under  the  muzzles 
of  his  cannon,  were  left,  as  already  stated,  unsupported, 
without  nourishment,  and  with  weapons  from  their  own 
gun-hooks,  singly  to  maintain  the  honor  of  their  nation. 
Including  men  of  all  ages  and  conditions,  there  might  have 
been  two  thousand  of  them  ; but,  as  the  day  advanced,  small 
bodies  of  their  countrymen,  taking  counsel  of  their  feelings, 
and  animated  by  the  example  of  the  old  partisan  of  the 
woods,  who  crossed  and  recrossed  the  neck,  loudly  scoffing 
at  the  danger,  broke  through  the  fire  of  the  shipping  in  time 
to  join  in  the  closing  and  bloody  business  of  the  hour. 

On  the  other  hand,  Howe  led  more  than  an  equal  number 
of  the  chosen  troops  of  his  prince ; and  as  boats  continued 
to  ply  between  the  two  peninsulas  throughout  the  afternoon, 
the  relative  disparity  continued  undiminished  to  the  end  of 
the  struggle.  It  was  at  this  point  in  our  narrative  that, 
deeming  himself  sufficiently  strong  to  force  the  defences  of 
his  despised  foes,  the  arrangements  immediately  preparatory 
to  such  an  undertaking  were  made  in  full  view  of  the  ex- 
cited spectators.  Notwithstanding  the  security  with  which 
the  English  general  marshalled  his  warriors,  he  felt  that  the 
approaching  contest  would  be  a battle  of  no  common  inci- 
dents. The  eyes  of  tens  of  thousands  were  fastened  on  his 
movements,  and  the  occasion  demanded  the  richest  display 
of  the  pageantry  of  war. 

The  troops  formed  with  beautiful  accuracy,  and  the  col- 
umns moved  steadily  along  the  shore,  and  took  their  as- 
signed stations  under  cover  of  the  brow  of  the  eminence. 
Their  force  was  in  some  measure  divided ; one  moiety 
attempting  the  toilsome  ascent  of  the  hill,  and  the  other 
moving  along  the  beach,  or  in  the  orchards  of  the  more 


%tonc I ^Lincoln 


205 


level  ground,  towards  the  husbandmen  on  the  meadows. 
The  latter  soon  disappeared  behind  some  fruit-trees  and 
the  brick-kilns  just  mentioned.  The  advance  of  the  royal 
columns  up  the  ascent  was  slow  and  measured,  giving  time 
to  their  field-guns  to  add  their  efforts  to  the  uproar  of  the 
cannonade,  which  broke  out  with  new  fury  as  the  battalions 
prepared  to  march.  When  each  column  arrived  at  the  al- 
lotted point,  it  spread  the  gallant  array  of  its  glittering 
warriors  under  a bright  sun. 

“It  is  a glorious  spectacle  !”  murmured  the  graceful 
chieftain  by  the  side  of  Lionel,  keenly  alive  to  all  the  poetry 
of  his  alluring  profession.  “How  exceeding  soldier-like! 
and  with  what  accuracy  his  ‘ first- arm  ascends  the  hill,  ’ 
towards  his  enemy  ! ’ ’ 

The  intensity  of  his  feelings  prevented  Major  Lincoln 
from  replying,  and  the  other  soon  forgot  that  he  had  spoken, 
in  the  overwhelming  anxiety  of  the  moment.  The  advance 
of  the  British  line,  so  beautiful  and  slow,  resembled  rather 
the  ordered  steadiness  of  a drill,  than  an  approach  to  a 
deadly  struggle.  Their  standards  fluttered  proudly  above 
them ; and  there  were  moments  when  the  wild  music  of 
their  bands  was  heard  rising  on  the  air,  and  tempering  the 
ruder  sounds  of  the  artillery.  The  young  and  thoughtless 
in  their  ranks  turned  their  faces  backward,  and  smiled  exult- 
ingly,  as  they  beheld  steeples,  roofs,  masts,  and  heights, 
teeming  with  their  thousands  of  eyes,  bent  on  the  show  of, 
their  bright  array.  As  the  British  lines  moved  in  open 
view  of  the  little  redoubt,  and  began  slowly  to  gather 
around  its  different  faces,  gun  after  gun  became  silent,  and 
the  curious  artillerist,  or  tired  seaman,  lay  extended  on  his 
heated  piece,  gazing  in  mute  wonder  at  the  spectacle. 
There  was  just  then  a minute  when  the  roar  of  the  can- 
nonade seemed  passing  away  like  the  rumbling  of  distant 
thunder. 

“ They  will  not  fight,  Lincoln,”  said  the  animated  leader 
at  the  side  of  Lionel  ; ‘ 4 the  military  front  of  Howe  has 
chilled  the  hearts  of  the  knaves,  and  our  victory  will  be 
bloodless  ! ’ ’ 

“We  shall  see,  sir — we  shall  see  ! ” 


20  6 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


These  words  were  barely  uttered,  when  platoon  after 
platoon,  among  the  British,  delivered  its  fire,  the  blaze  of 
musketry  flashing  swiftly  around  the  brow  of  the  hill,  and 
was  immediately  followed  by  heavy  volleys  that  ascended 
from  the  orchard.  Still  no  answering  sound  was  heard  from 
the  Americans,  and  the  royal  troops  were  soon  lost  to  the 
eye,  as  they  slowly  marched  into  the  white  cloud  which 
their  own  fire  had  alone  created. 

‘ ‘ They  are  cowed,  by  heavens — the  dogs  are  cowed  ! ’ 9 
once  more  cried  the  gay  companion  of  Lionel,  “and  Howe 
is  within  two  hundred  feet  of  them,  unharmed  ! ” 

At  that  instant  a sheet  of  flame  glanced  through  the 
smoke,  like  lightning  playing  in  a cloud,  while  at  one  report 
a thousand  muskets  were  added  to  the  uproar.  It  was  not 
altogether  fancy  which  led  Lionel  to  imagine  that  he  saw 
the  smoky  canopy  of  the  hill  to  wave,  as  if  the  trained 
warriors  it  enveloped  faltered  before  this  close  and  appalling 
discharge  ; but,  in  another  instant,  the  stimulating  war-cry, 
and  the  loud  shouts  of  the  combatants,  were  borne  across 
the  strait  to  his  ears,  even  amid  the  horrid  din  of  the  combat. 
Ten  breathless  minutes  flew  by  like  a moment  of  time,  and 
the  bewildered  spectators  on  Copp’s  were  still  gazing  in- 
tently on  the  scene,  when  a voice  was  raised  among  them, 
shouting, — 

“Hurrah!  let  the  rake-hellies  go  up  to  Breed’s — the 
people  will  teach  ’em  the  law  ! ” 

“ Throw  the  rebel  scoundrel  from  the  hill ! Blow  him 
from  the  muzzle  of  a gun  ! ’ ’ cried  twenty  soldiers  in  a 
breath. 

“ Hold  ! ’’  exclaimed  Lionel  ; “ ’t  is  a simpleton,  an  idiot, 
a fool ! ” 

But  the  angry  and  savage  murmurs  as  quickly  subsided, 
and  were  lost  in  other  feelings,  as  the  bright-red  lines  of  the 
royal  troops  were  seen  issuing  from  the  smoke,  waving  and 
recoiling  before  the  still  vivid  fire  of  their  enemies. 

“Ha  ! ’’  said  Burgoyne  ; “ ’tis  some  feint  to  draw  the 
rebels  from  their  hold  ! ’’ 

“ ’Tis  a palpable  and  disgraceful  retreat!”  muttered  the 
stem  warrior  nigh  him,  whose  truer  eye  detected  at  a glance 


SUottel  ^Lincoln 


207 


the  discomfiture  of  the  assailants.  “T  is  another  base  re- 
treat before  the  rebels  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Hurrah  ! ’ ’ shouted  the  reckless  changeling  again  ; 
“ there  come  the  regulars  out  of  the  orchard,  too  ! See  the 
grannies  skulking  behind  the  kilns  ! I,et  them  go  on  to 
Breed’s — the  people  will  teach  ’em  the  law  ! ” 

No  cry  of  vengeance  preceded  the  act  this  time,  but  fifty 
of  the  soldiery  rushed,  as  by  a common  impulse,  on  their 
prey.  Ifionel  had  not  time  to  utter  a word  of  remonstrance, 
before  Job  appeared  in  the  air,  borne  on  the  uplifted  arms 
of  a dozen  men,  and  at  the  next  instant  he  was  seen  rolling 
down  the  steep  declivity,  with  a velocity  that  carried  him  to 
the  water’s  edge.  Springing  to  his  feet,  the  undaunted 
changeling  once  more  waved  his  hat  in  triumph,  and  shouted 
forth  again  his  offensive  challenge.  Then,  turning,  he 
launched  his  canoe  from  its  hiding-place  among  the  adjacent 
lumber,  amid  a shower  of  stones,  and  glided  across  the 
strait ; his  little  bark  escaping  unnoticed  in  the  crowd  of 
boats  that  were  rowing  in  all  directions.  But  his  progress 
was  watched  by  the  uneasy  eye  of  Lfionel,  who  saw  him 
land  and  disappear,  with  hasty  steps,  in  the  silent  streets  of 
the  town. 

While  this  trifling  by-play  was  enacting,  the  great  drama 
of  the  day  was  not  at  a stand.  The  smoky  veil,  which 
clung  around  the  brow  of  the  eminence,  was  lifted  by  the 
air,  and  sailed  heavily  away  to  the  southwest,  leaving  the 
scene  of  the  bloody  struggle  again  open  to  the  view.  Lfionel 
witnessed  the  grave  and  meaning  glances  which  the  two 
lieutenants  of  the  king  exchanged  as  they  simultaneously 
turned  their  glasses  from  the  fatal  spot,  and,  taking  the  one 
proffered  by  Burgoyne,  he  read  their  explanation  in  the 
numbers  of  the  dead  that  lay  profusely  scattered  in  front  of 
the  redoubt.  At  this  instant,  an  officer  from  the  field  held 
an  earnest  communication  with  the  two  leaders ; when, 
having  delivered  his  orders,  he  hastened  back  to  his  boat, 
like  one  who  felt  himself  employed  in  matters  of  life  and 
death. 

“It  shall  be  done,  sir,”  repeated  Clinton,  as  the  other 
departed,  his  own  honest  brow  sternly  knit  under  high  mar- 


Xtonel  Lincoln 


208 


tial  excitement.  “ The  artillery  have  their  orders,  and  the 
work  will  be  accomplished  without  delay.’ * 

“This,  Major  Lincoln,”  cried  his  more  sophisticated  com- 
panion, “ this  is  one  of  the  trying  duties  of  the  soldier  ! To 
fight,  to  bleed,  or  even  to  die,  for  his  prince,  is  his  happy 
privilege ; but  it  is  sometimes  his  unfortunate  lot  to  become 
the  instrument  of  vengeance.” 

Lionel  waited  but  a moment  for  an  explanation ; the 
flaming  balls  were  soon  seen  taking  their  wide  circuit  in  th«* 
air,  and  carrying  their  desolation  among  the  close  and 
inflammable  roofs  of  the  opposite  town.  In  a very  few 
minutes,  a dense,  black  smoke  arose  from  the  deserted  build- 
ings, and  forked  flames  played  actively  along  the  heated 
shingles,  as  though  rioting  in  their  unmolested  possession  of 
the  place.  He  regarded  the  gathering  destruction  in  pain- 
ful silence ; and,  on  bending  his  looks  towards  his  com- 
panions, he  fancied,  notwithstanding  the  language  of  the 
other,  that  he  read  the  deepest  regret  in  the  averted  eye  of 
him  who  had  so  unhesitatingly  uttered  the  fatal  mandate 
to  destroy. 

In  scenes  like  these  we  are  attempting  to  describe,  hours 
appear  to  be  minutes,  and  time  flies  as  imperceptibly  as  life 
slides  from  beneath  the  feet  of  age.  The  disordered  ranks 
of  the  British  had  been  arrested  at  the  base  of  the  hill,  and 
were  again  forming  under  the  eyes  of  their  leaders,  with 
admirable  discipline  and  extraordinary  care.  Fresh  battal- 
ions, from  Boston,  marched  with  high  military  pride  into  the 
line,  and  everything  betokened  that  a second  assault  was  at 
hand.  When  the  moment  of  stupid  amazement  which  suc- 
ceeded the  retreat  of  the  royal  troops  had  passed,  the  troops 
and  batteries  poured  out  their  wrath  with  tenfold  fury  on 
their  enemies.  Shot  were  incessantly  glancing  up  the 
gentle  acclivity,  madly  ploughing  across  its  grassy  surface, 
while  black  and  threatening  shells  appeared  to  hover  above 
the  work,  like  the  monsters  of  the  air,  about  to  swoop  upon 
their  prey. 

Still  all  lay  quiet  and  immovable  within  the  low  mounds 
of  earth,  as  if  none  there  had  a stake  in  the  issue  of  the 
bloody  day.  For  a few  moments  only,  the  tall  figure  of  an 


Xiortel  ^Lincoln 


209 


aged  man  was  seen  slowly  moving  along  the  summit  of  the 
rampart,  calmly  regarding  the  dispositions  of  the  English 
general  in  the  more  distant  part  of  his  line,  and  after 
exchanging  a few  words  with  a gentleman,  who  joined 
him  in  his  dangerous  lookout,  they  disappeared  together 
behind  the  grassy  banks.  Lionel  soon  detected  the  name 
of  Prescott  of  Pepperel,  passing  through  the  crowd  in 
low  murmurs,  and  his  glass  did  not  deceive  him  when 
he  thought,  in  the  smaller  of  the  two,  he  had  himself 
descried  the  graceful  person  of  the  unknown  leader  of  the 
“ caucus.’ ’ 

All  eyes  were  now  watching  the  advance  of  the  battalions, 
which  once  more  drew  nigh  the  point  of  contest.  The 
heads  of  the  columns  were  already  in  view  of  their  enemies, 
when  a man  was  seen  swiftly  ascending  the  hill  from  the 
burning  town ; he  paused  amid  the  peril,  on  the  natural 
glacis,  and  swung  his  hat  triumphantly,  and  Lionel  even 
fancied  he  heard  the  exulting  cry,  as  he  recognized  the 
ungainly  form  of  the  simpleton,  before  it  plunged  into  the 
work. 

The  right  of  the  British  once  more  disappeared  in  the 
orchard,  and  the  columns  in  front  of  the  redoubt  again 
opened  with  all  the  imposing  exactness  of  their  high  disci- 
pline. Their  arms  were  already  glittering  in  a line  with  the 
green  faces  of  the  mound,  and  Lionel  heard  the  experienced 
warrior  at  his  side  murmuring  to  himself, — 

“ Let  him  hold  his  fire,  and  he  will  go  in  at  the  point  of 
the  bayonet ! ’ ’ 

But  the  trial  was  too  great  for  even  the  practised  courage 
of  the  royal  troops.  Volley  succeeded  volley,  and  in  a few 
moments  they  had  again  curtained  their  ranks  behind  the 
misty  screen  produced  by  their  own  fire.  Then  came  the 
terrible  flash  from  the  redoubt,  and  the  eddying  volumes 
from  the  adverse  hosts  rolled  into  one  cloud,  enveloping  the 
combatants  in  its  folds,  as  if  to  conceal  their  bloody  work 
from  the  spectators.  Twenty  times,  in  the  short  space  of  as 
many  minutes,  Major  Lincoln  fancied  he  heard  the  incessant 
roll  of  the  American  musketry  die  away  before  the  heavy 
and  regular  volleys  of  the  troops  ; and  then  he  thought  the 


210 


^Lionel  lincoltt 


sounds  of  the  latter  grew  more  faint,  and  were  given  at 
longer  intervals. 

The  result,  however,  was  soon  known.  The  heavy  bank 
of  smoke,  which  now  even  clung  along  the  ground,  was 
broken  in  fifty  places  ; and  the  disordered  masses  of  the 
British  were  seen  driven  before  their  deliberate  foes  in  wild 
confusion.  The  flashing  swords  of  the  officers  in  vain 
attempted  to  arrest  the  torrent,  nor  did  the  flight  cease, 
with  many  of  the  regiments,  until  they  had  even  reached 
their  boats.  At  this  moment  a hum  was  heard  in  Boston, 
like  the  sudden  rush  of  wind,  and  men  gazed  in  each  other's 
faces  with  undisguised  amazement.  Here  and  there  a low 
sound  of  exultation  escaped  some  unguarded  lip,  and  many 
an  eye  gleamed  with  a triumph  that  could  no  longer  be  sup- 
pressed. Until  this  moment  the  feelings  of  Lionel  had 
vacillated  between  the  pride  of  country  and  his  military 
spirit ; but,  losing  all  other  feelings  in  the  latter  sensation, 
he  now  looked  fiercely  about  him,  as  if  he  would  seek  the 
man  who  dare  exult  in  the  repulse  of  his  comrades.  The 
poetic  chieftain  was  still  at  his  side,  biting  his  nether  lip  in 
vexation  ; but  his  more  tried  companion  had  suddenly  dis- 
appeared. Another  quick  glace  fell  upon  his  missing  form 
in  the  act  of  entering  a boat  at  the  foot  of  the  hill.  Quicker 
than  thought  Lionel  was  on  the  shore,  crying,  as  he  flew  to 
the  water’s  edge, — 

“ Hold  ! for  God’s  sake,  hold  ! Remember  the  47th  is  in 
the  field,  and  that  I am  its  major  ! ” 

“ Receive  him,”  said  Clinton,  with  that  grim  satisfaction 
with  which  men  acknowledge  a valued  friend  in  moments  of 
great  trial  ; “ and  then  row  for  your  lives,  or,  what  is  of  more 
value,  for  the  honor  of  the  British  name.” 

The  brain  of  Lionel  whirled  as  the  boat  shot  along  its 
watery  bed,  but  before  it  had  gained  the  middle  of  the  stream 
he  had  time  to  consider  the  whole  of  the  appalling  scene. 
The  fire  had  spread  from  house  to  house,  and  the  whole  vil- 
lage of  Charlestown,  with  its  four  hundred  buildings,  was 
just  bursting  into  flames.  The  air  seemed  filled  with  whist- 
ling balls,  as  they  hurtled  above  his  head,  and  the  black 
sides  of  the  vessels  of  war  were  vomiting  their  sheets  of  flame 


Xfcrnel  ^Lincoln 


2 1 1 


with  unwearied  industry.  Amid  this  tumult,  the  English 
general  and  his  companions  sprung  to  land.  The  former 
rushed  into  the  disordered  ranks,  and  by  his  presence  and 
voice  recalled  the  men  of  one  regiment  to  their  duty.  But 
long  and  loud  appeals  to  their  spirit  and  their  ancient  fame 
were  necessary  to  restore  a moiety  of  their  former  confidence 
to  men  who  had  been  thus  rudely  repulsed,  and  who  now 
looked  along  their  thinned  and  exhausted  ranks,  missing,  in 
many  instances,  more  than  half  the  well-known  countenances 
of  their  fellows.  In  the  midst  of  the  faltering  troops  stood 
their  stern  and  unbending  chief ; but  of  all  those  gay  and 
gallant  youths,  who  followed  in  his  train  as  he  had  departed 
from  Province  House  that  morning,  not  one  remained,  but 
in  his  blood.  He  alone  seemed  undisturbed  in  that  disor- 
dered crowd  ; and  his  mandates  went  forth  as  usual,  calm 
and  determined.  At  length  the  panic,  in  some  degree,  sub- 
sided, and  order  was  once  more  restored  as  the  high-spirited 
and  mortified  gentlemen  of  the  detachment  regained  their 
lost  authority. 

The  leaders  consulted  together,  apart,  and  the  dispositions 
were  immediately  renewed  for  the  assault.  Military  show 
was  no  longer  affected,  but  the  soldiers  laid  down  all  the 
useless  implements  of  their  trade,  and  many  even  cast  aside 
their  outer  garments,  under  the  warmth  of  a broiling  sun, 
added  to  the  heat  of  the  conflagration,  which  began  to  dif- 
fuse itself  along  the  extremity  of  the  peninsula.  Fresh  com- 
panies we.  e placed  in  the  columns,  and  most  of  the  troops 
were  withdrawn  from  the  meadows,  leaving  merely  a few 
skirmishers  to  amuse  the  Americans  who  lay  behind  the 
fence.  When  each  disposition  was  completed,  the  final 
signal  was  given  to  advance. 

Lionel  had  taken  post  in  his  regiment,  but  marching  on 
the  skirt  of  the  column,  he  commanded  a view  of  most  of  the 
scene  of  battle.  In  his  front  moved  a battalion,  reduced  to 
a handful  of  men  in  the  previous  assaults.  Behind  these  came 
a party  of  the  marine  guards,  from  the  shipping,  led  by  their 
own  veteran  major  ; and  next  followed  the  dejected  Nesbitt 
and  his  corps,  amongst  whom  Lionel  looked  in  vain  for  the 
features  of  the  good-natured  Polwarth.  Similar  columns 


212 


%ioncl  ^Lincoln 


marched  on  their  right  and  left,  encircling  three  sides  of 
the  redoubt  by  their  battalions. 

A few  minutes  brought  him  in  full  view  of  that  humble 
and  unfinished  mound  of  earth,  for  the  possession  of  which 
so  much  blood  had  that  day  been  spilt  in  vain.  It  lay,  as 
before,  still  as  if  none  breathed  within  its  bosom,  though  a 
terrific  row  of  dark  tubes  were  arrayed  along  its  top,  follow- 
ing the  movements  of  the  approaching  columns,  as  the  eyes 
of  the  imaginary  charmers  of  our  own  wilderness  are  said  to 
watch  their  victims.  As  the  uproar  of  [the  artillery  again 
grew  fainter,  the  crash  of  falling  streets,  and  the  appalling 
sounds  of  the  conflagration  on  their  left,  became  more  audi- 
ble. Immense  volumes  of  black  smoke  issued  from  the 
smouldering  ruins,  and,  bellying  outward,  fold  beyond  fold, 
it  overhung  the  work  in  a hideous  cloud,  casting  its  gloomy 
shadow  across  the  place  of  blood. 

A strong  column  was  now  seen  ascending,  as  if  from  out 
the  burning  town,  and  the  advance  of  the  whole  became 
quick  and  spirited.  A low  call  ran  through  the  platoons,  to 
note  the  naked  weapons  of  their  adversaries,  and  it  was  fol- 
lowed by  the  cry  of  “ To  the  bayonet ! to  the  bayonet ! ” 

“ Hurrah  ! for  the  Royal  Irish  ! ” shouted  M’Kuse,  at  the 
head  of  the  dark  column  from  the  conflagration. 

‘ ‘ Hurrah  ! ’ ’ echoed  a well-known  voice  from  the  silent 
mound  ; ‘ ‘ let  them  come  on  to  Breed’s  ; the  people  will  teach 
’em  the  law  ! ” 

Men  think  at  such  moments  with  the  rapidity  of  lightning, 
and  Lionel  had  even  fancied  his  comrades  in  possession  of 
the  work,  when  the  terrible  stream  of  fire  flashed  in  the  faces 
of  the  men  in  front. 

“ Push  on  with  the th,”  cried  the  veteran  major  of 

marines, — “ push  on,  or  the  18th  will  get  the  honor  of  the 
day  ! ’ ’ 

4 ‘We  cannot,”  murmured  the  soldiers  of  the th ; 

“ their  fire  is  too  heavy  ! ” 

“ Then  break,  and  let  the  marines  pass  through  you  ! ” 

The  feeble  battalion  melted  awa}^  and  the  warriors  of  the 
deep,  trained  to  conflicts  of  hand  to  hand,  sprang  forward, 
with  a loud  shout,  in  their  places.  The  Americans,  ex- 


Xionel  Xincoln 


213 


hausted  of  their  ammunition,  now  sunk  sullenly  back,  a few 
hurling  stones  at  their  foes  in  desperate  indignation.  The 
cannon  of  the  British  had  been  brought  to  enfilade  their  short 
breastwork,  which  was  no  longer  tenable  ; and  as  the  col- 
umns approached  closer  to  the  low  rampart,  it  became  a 
mutual  protection  to  the  adverse  parties. 

“ Hurrah  ! for  the  Royal  Irish  ! ” again  shouted  M’Fuse, 
rushing  up  the  trifling  ascent,  which  was  but  of  little  more 
than  his  own  height. 

‘ ‘ Hurrah  ! ’ ’ repeated  Pitcairn,  waving  his  sword  on  an- 
other angle  of  the  work,  “ the  day  *s  our  own  ! ” 

One  more  sheet  of  flame  issued  out  of  the  bosom  of  the 
work,  and  all  those  brave  men,  who  had  emulated  the  ex- 
amples of  their  officers,  were  swept  away,  as  though  a whirl- 
wind had  passed  along.  The  grenadier  gave  his  war-cry 
once  more,  before  he  pitched  headlong  among  his  enemies  ; 
while  Pitcairn  fell  back  into  the  arms  of  his  own  child.  The 
cry  of  “ Forward,  47th  ! ” rung  through  their  ranks,  and  in 
their  turn  this  veteran  battalion  gallantly  mounted  the  ram- 
parts. In  the  shallow  ditch  Lionel  passed  the  expiring 
marine,  and  caught  the  dying  and  despairing  look  from  his 
eyes,  and  in  another  instant  he  found  himself  in  the  presence 
of  his  foes.  As  company  followed  company  into  the  defence- 
less redoubt,  the  Americans  sullenly  retired  by  its  rear,  keep- 
ing the  bayonets  of  the  soldiers  at  bay  with  clubbed  muskets 
and  sinewy  arms.  When  the  whole  issued  upon  the  open 
ground,  the  husbandmen  received  a close  and  fatal  fire  from 
the  battalions,  which  were  now  gathering  around  them  on 
three  sides.  A scene  of  wild  and  savage  confusion  then  suc- 
ceeded to  the  order  of  the  fight,  and  many  fatal  blows  were 
given  and  taken,  the  m$l£e  rendering  the  use  of  fire-arms 
nearly  impossible  for  several  minutes. 

Lionel  continued  in  advance,  pressing  on  the  footsteps  of 
the  retiring  foe,  stepping  over  many  a lifeless  body  in  his 
difficult  progress.  Notwithstanding  the  hurry,  and  vast 
disorder  of  the  fray,  his  eye  fell  on  the  form  of  the  graceful 
stranger,  stretched  lifeless  on  the  parched  grass,  which  had 
greedily  drank  his  blood.  Amid  the  ferocious  cries  and 
fiercer  passions  of  the  moment,  the  young  man  paused,  and 


214 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


glanced  his  eyes  around  him  with  an  expression  that  said  he 
thought  the  work  of  death  should  cease.  At  this  instant  the 
trappings  of  his  attire  caught  the  glaring  eyeballs  of  a dy- 
ing yoeman,  who  exerted  his  wasting  strength  to  sacrifice 
one  more  worthy  victim  to  the  manes  of  his  countrymen. 
The  whole  of  the  tumultuous  scene  vanished  from  the  senses 
of  Tionel  at  the  flash  of  the  musket  of  this  man,  and  he  sunk 
beneath  the  feet  of  the  combatants,  insensible  of  further 
triumph,  and  of  every  danger. 

The  fall  of  a single  officer,  in  such  a contest,  was  a cir- 
cumstance not  to  be  regarded ; and  regiments  passed  over 
him,  without  a single  man  stooping  to  inquire  into  his  fate. 
When  the  Americans  had  disengaged  themselves  from  the 
troops,  they  descended  into  the  little  hollow  between  the 
two  hills,  swiftly,  and  like  a disordered  crowd,  bearing  off 
most  of  their  wounded,  and  leaving  but  few  prisoners  in  the 
hands  of  their  foes.  The  formation  of  the  ground  favored 
their  retreat,  as  hundreds  of  bullets  whistled  harmlessly 
above  their  heads  ; and  by  the  time  they  gained  the  acclivity 
of  Bunker,  distance  was  added  to  their  security.  Finding 
the  field  lost,  the  men  at  the  fence  broke  away  in  a body 
from  their  position,  and  abandoned  the  meadows  ; the  whole 
moving  in  confused  masses  behind  the  crest  of  the  adjacent 
height.  The  shouting  soldiery  followed  in  their  footsteps, 
pouring  in  fruitless  and  distant  volleys  ; but  on  the  summit 
of  Bunker  their  tired  platoons  were  halted,  and  they  beheld 
the  throng  move  fearlessly  through  the  tremendous  fire  that 
enfiladed  the  low  pass,  as  little  injured  as  though  most  of 
them  bore  charmed  lives. 

The  day  was  now  drawing  to  a close.  With  the  disap- 
pearance of  their  enemies,  the  ships  and  batteries  ceased 
their  cannonade  ; and  presently  not  a musket  was  heard  in 
that  place  where  so  fierce  a contest  had  so  long  raged.  The 
troops  commenced  fortifying  the  outward  eminence,  on 
which  they  rested,  in  order  to  maintain  their  barren  con- 
quest ; and  nothing  further  remained  for  the  achievement  of 
the  royal  lieutenants  but  to  go  and  mourn  over  their  victory. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

“ She  speaks,  yet  she  says  nothing  : what  of  that  ? 

Her  eye  discourses, — I will  answer  it.” 

Romeo  and  Juliet . 

ALTHOUGH  the  battle  of  Bunker  Hill  was  fought 
while  the  grass  yet  lay  on  the  meadows,  the  heats 
of  summer  had  been  followed  by  the  nipping 
frosts  of  November ; the  leaf  had  fallen  in  its 
hour,  and  the  tempests  and  biting  colds  of  February  had 
succeeded,  before  Major  Lincoln  left  that  couch  where  he 
had  been  laid,  when  carried,  in  total  helplessness,  from  the 
fatal  heights  of  the  peninsula.  Throughout  the  whole  of 
that  long  period,  the  hidden  bullet  had  defied  the  utmost 
skill  of  the  British  surgeons  ; nor  could  all  their  science  and 
experience  embolden  them  to  risk  cutting  certain  arteries 
and  tendons  in  the  body  of  the  heir  of  Lincoln,  which  were 
thought  to  obstruct  the  passage  to  that  obstinate  lead, 
which,  all  agreed,  alone  impeded  the  recovery  of  the  unfor- 
tunate sufferer.  This  indecision  was  one  of  the  penalties 
that  poor  Lionel  paid  for  his  greatness ; for  had  it  been 
Meriton  who  lingered,  instead  of  his  'master,  it  is  quite 
probable  the  case  would  have  been  determined  at  a much 
earlier  hour.  At  length,  a young  and  enterprising  leech, 
with  the  world  before  him,  arrived  from  Europe,  who,  pos- 
sessing greater  skill  or  more  effrontery  (the  effects  are  some- 
times the  same)  than  his  fellows,  did  not  hesitate  to  decide 
at  once  on  the  expediency  of  an  operation.  The  medical 
staff  of  the  army  sneered  at  this  bold  innovator,  and  at  first 
were  content  with  such  silent  testimonials  of  their  contempt. 
But  when  the  friends  of  the  patient,  listening,  as  usual,  to 


21 6 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


the  whisperings  of  hope,  consented  that  the  confident  man 
of  probes  should  use  his  instruments,  the  voices  of  his  con- 
temporaries became  not  only  loud,  but  clamorous.  There 
was  a day  or  two  when  even  the  watch-worn  and  jaded 
subalterns  of  the  army  forgot  the  dangers  and  hardships  of 
the  siege,  to  attend  with  demure  and  instructed  counte- 
nances to  the  unintelligible  jargon  of  the  “Medici”  of 
their  camp ; and  men  grew  pale,  as  they  listened,  who  had 
never  been  known  to  exhibit  any  symptoms  of  the  disgrace- 
ful passion  before  their  more  acknowledged  enemies.  But 
when  it  became  known  that  the  ball  was  safely  extracted, 
and  the  patient  was  pronounced  convalescent,  a calm  suc- 
ceeded, that  was  much  more  portentous  to  the  human  race 
than  the  preceding  tempest ; and  in  a short  time  the  daring 
practitioner  was  universally  acknowledged  to  be  the  founder 
of  a new  theory.  The  degrees  of  M.D.  were  showered  upon 
his  honored  head  from  half  the  learned  bodies  in  Christen- 
dom, while  many  of  his  enthusiastic  admirers  and  imitators 
became  justly  entitled  to  the  use  of  the  same  magical  sym- 
bols, as  annexments  to  their  patronymics,  with  the  addition 
of  the  first  letter  of  the  alphabet.  The  ancient  reasoning 
was  altered  to  suit  the  modern  facts,  and  before  the  war  was 
ended,  some  thousands  of  the  servants  of  the  crown,  and 
not  a few  of  the  patriotic  colonists,  were  thought  to  have 
died,  scientifically,  under  the  favor  of  this  important  dis- 
covery. 

We  might  devote  a chapter  to  the  minute  promulgation 
of  such  an  event,  had  not  more  recent  philosophers  long 
since  upset  the  practice  (in  which  case  the  theory  seems  to 
fall,  as  a matter  of  course),  by  the  renewal  of  those  bold 
adventures,  which  teach  us,  occasionally,  something  new  in 
the  anatomy  of  man  ; as  in  the  science  of  geography,  the 
sealers  of  New  England  have  been  able  to  discover  Terra 
Australia,  where  Cook  saw  nothing  but  water ; or  Parry 
finds  veins  and  arteries  in  that  part  of  the  American  conti- 
nent which  had  so  long  been  thought  to  consist  of  worthless 
cartilage. 

Whatever  may  have  been  the  effects  of  the  operation  on 
the  surgical  science,  it  was  healthful,  in  the  first  degree,  to 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


217 


its  subject.  For  seven  weary  months  Lionel  lay  in  a state 
in  which  he  might  be  said  to  exist,  instead  of  live,  but  little 
conscious  of  surrounding  occurrences  ; and,  happily  for  him- 
self, nearly  insensible  to  pain  and  anxiety.  At  moments 
the  flame  of  life  would  apparently  glimmer  like  the  dying 
lamp,  and  then  both  the  fears  and  hopes  of  his  attendants 
were  disappointed,  as  the  patient  dropped  again  into  that 
state  of  apathy  in  which  so  much  of  his  time  was  wasted. 
From  an  erroneous  opinion  of  his  master’s  sufferings,  Meri- 
ton  had  been  induced  to  make  a free  use  of  soporifics,  and 
no  small  part  of  Lionel’s  insensibility  was  produced  by  an 
excessive  use  of  that  laudanum,  for  which  he  was  indebted 
to  the  mistaken  humanity  of  his  valet.  At  the  moment  of 
the  operation,  the  adventurous  surgeon  had  availed  himself 
of  the  same  stupefying  drug,  and  many  days  of  dull,  heavy, 
and  alarming  apathy  succeeded,  before  his  system,  finding 
itself  relieved  from  its  unnatural  inmate,  resumed  its  health^ 
ful  functions,  and  began  to  renew  its  powers.  By  a singular 
good  fortune,  his  leech  was  too  much  occupied  by  his  own 
novel  honors,  to  follow  up  his  success,  secundum  artem , as 
a great  general  pushes  a victory  to  the  utmost ; and  that 
matchless  doctor,  Nature,  was  permitted  to  complete  the 
cure. 

When  the  effects  of  the  anodynes  had  subsided,  the  pa- 
tient found  himself  entirely  free  from  uneasiness,  and 
dropped  into  a sweet  and  refreshing  sleep  that  lasted  for 
many  hours  without  interruption.  He  awoke  a new  man  ; 
with  his  body  renovated,  his  head  clear,  and  his  recollec- 
tions, though  a little  confused  and  wandering,  certainly 
better  than  they  had  been  since  the  moment  when  he  fell  in 
the  melee  on  Breed’s.  This  restoration  to  all  the  nobler 
properties  of  life  occurred  about  the  tenth  hour  of  the  day  ; 
and  as  Lionel  opened  his  eyes,  with  understanding  in  their 
expression,  they  fell  upon  a cheerfulness  which  a bright  sun, 
assisted  by  the  dazzling  light  of  the  masses  of  snow  without, 
had  lent  to  every  object  in  his  apartment.  The  curtains  of 
the  windows  had  been  opened,  and  every  article  of  the  fur- 
niture was  arranged  with  a neatness  that  manifested  the 
studied  care  which  presided  over  his  illness.  In  one  corner, 


2l8 


Xfoitel  Xtncoln 


it  is  true,  Meriton  had  established  himself  in  an  easy  chair, 
with  an  arrangement  of  attitude  which  spoke  more  in  favor 
of  his  consideration  for  the  valet  than  the  master,  while  he 
was  comforting  his  faculties  for  a night  of  watchfulness,  by 
the  sweet,  because  stolen,  slumbers  of  the  morning. 

A flood  of  recollections  broke  into  the  mind  of  Lionel  to- 
gether, and  it  was  some  little  time  before  he  could  so  far 
separate  the  true  from  the  imaginary,  as  to  attain  a toler- 
ably clear  comprehension  of  what  had  occurred  in  the  little 
age  he  had  been  dozing.  Raising  himself  on  one  elbow, 
without  difficulty,  he  passed  his  hand  once  or  twice  slowly 
over  his  face,  and  then  trusted  his  voice  in  a summons  to 
his  man.  Meriton  started  at  the  well-known  sounds,  and 
after  diligently  rubbing  his  eyes,  like  one  who  awakes  by 
surprise,  he  arose  and  gave  the  customary  reply. 

“ How  now,  Meriton  ! ’ ’ exclaimed  Major  Lincoln  ; “ you 
sleep  as  sound  as  a recruit  on  post,  and  I suppose  you  have 
been  stationed  like  one,  with  twice-told  orders  to  be  vigilant.  ” 

The  valet  stood  with  open  mouth,  as  if  ready  to  devour 
his  master’s  words  with  more  senses  than  one  ; and  then,  as 
Lionel  concluded,  passed  his  hands  in  quick  succession  over 
his  eyes,  as  before,  though  with  a very  different  object,  ere 
he  answered, — 

“Thank  God,  sir,  thank  God!  you  look  like  yourself 
once  more,  and  we  shall  live  again  as  we  used  to.  Yes,  yes, 
sir  ; you  ’ll  do  now, — you  ’ll  do  this  time.  That ’s  a miracle 
of  a man,  is  the  great  Lon’ non  surgeon  ! and  now  we  shall 
go  back  to  Soho,  and  live  like  civilizers.  Thank  God,  sir, 
thank  God ! you  smile  again  ; and  I hope  if  anything 
should  go  wrong,  you  ’ll  soon  be  able  to  give  me  one  of 
those  awful  looks  that  I am  so  used  to,  and  which  makes 
my  heart  jump  into  my  mouth,  when  I know  I ’ve  been  for- 
getful ! ’ ’ 

The  poor  fellow,  in  whom  long  service  had  created  a deep 
attachment  to  his  master,  which  had  been  greatly  increased 
by  the  solicitude  of  a nurse,  was  compelled  to  cease  his 
unconnected  expressions  of  joy,  while  he  actually  wept. 
Lionel  was  too  much  affected  by  this  evidence  of  feeling, 
to  continue  the  dialogue,  for  several  minutes  ; during  which 


QLionel  Lincoln 


219 


time  he  employed  himself  in  putting  on  part  of  his  attire, 
assisted  by  the  gulping  valet,  when,  drawing  his  robe-de- 
chambre  around  his  person,  he  leaned  on  the  shoulder  of 
his  man,  and  took  the  seat  which  the  other  had  so  recently 
quitted. 

“Well,  well,  Meriton,  that  will  do,”  said  Lionel,  giving 
a deep  hem,  as  though  his  breathing  was  obstructed  ; “ that 
will  do,  silly  fellow  ; I trust  I shall  live  to  give  you  many  a 
frown,  and  some  few  guineas,  yet.  I have  been  shot,  I 
know — ’ ’ 

“Shot,  sir!”  interrupted  the  valet,  “you  have  been 
downright  and  unlawfully  murdered  ! you  were  first  shot, 
and  then  baggoneted,  and  after  that  a troop  of  horse  rode 
over  you.  I had  it  from  one  of  the  Royal  Irish,  who  lay 
by  your  side  the  whole  time,  and  who  now  lives  to  tell  of 
it ; a good  honest  fellow  is  Terence  ; and  if  such  a thing 
was  possible  that  your  honor  was  poor  enough  to  need  a 
pension,  he  would  cheerfully  swear  to  your  hurts  at  the 
King's  Bench,  or  War  Office  ; Bridewell,  or  St.  James’  ; 
it ’s  all  one  to  the  like  of  him.” 

“ I dare  say,  I dare  say,”  said  Lionel,  smiling,  though  he 
mechanically  passed  his  hand  over  his  body,  as  his  valet 
spoke  of  the  bayonet ; ‘ ‘ but  the  poor  fellow  must  have 
transferred  some  of  his  own  wounds  to  my  person ; I own 
the  bullet,  but  object  to  the  cavalry  and  the  steel.” 

“ No,  sir,  /own  the  bullet,  and  it  shall  be  buried  with  me 
in  my  dressing-box,  at  the  head  of  my  grave,”  said  Meriton, 
exhibiting  the  flattened  bit  of  lead,  exultingly,  in  the  palm 
of  his  hand  ; “it  has  been  in  my  pocket  these  thirteen  days, 
after  tormenting  your  honor  for  six  long  months,  hid  in 
the  what-d’  ye-call-’em  muscles,  away  behind  the  thingumy 
artery.  But  snug  as  it  was,  we  got  it  out ! He  is  a miracle, 
is  the  great  Lon’ non  surgeon  ! ” 

Lionel  reached  over  to  his  purse,  which  Meriton  had 
placed  regularly  on  the  table,  each  morning,  in  order  to 
remove  it  again  at  night,  and,  dropping  several  guineas  in 
the  hand  of  his  valet,  said, — 

“ So  much  lead  must  need  some  gold  to  sweeten  it.  Put 
up  the  unseemly  thing,  and  never  let  me  see  it  again  ! ” 


220 


Xionel  Lincoln 


Meriton  coolly  took  the  opposing  metals,  and  after  glanc- 
ing his  eyes  at  the  guineas,  with  a readiness  that  embraced 
their  amount  in  a single  look,  he  dropped  them  carelessly 
into  one  pocket,  while  he  restored  the  lead  to  the  other  with 
an  exceeding  attention  to  its  preservation.  He  then  turned 
his  hand  to  the  customary  duties  of  his  station. 

4 4 I remember  well  to  have  been  in  a fight  on  the  heights 
of  Charlestown,  even  to  the  instant  when  I got  my  hurt,” 
continued  his  master  ; 4 4 and  I even  recollect  many  things 
that  have  occurred  since  ; a period  which  appears  like  a 
whole  life  to  me.  But  after  all,  Meriton,  I believe  my  ideas 
have  not  been  remarkable  for  their  clearness.  ’ ’ 

4 4 Lord,  sir,  you  have  talked  to  me,  and  scolded  me,  and 
praised  me,  a hundred  and  a hundred  times  over  again  ; but 
you  have  never  scolded  as  sharp  like  as  you  can,  nor  have  you 
ever  spoken  and  looked  as  bright  as  you  do  this  morning  ! ’ ’ 
44  I am  in  the  house  of  Mrs.  Lechmere,”  again  continued 
Lionel,  examining  the  room ; “I  know  this  apartment  and 
those  private  doors  too  well  to  be  mistaken.” 

“To  be  sure  you  are,  sir;  Madam  Lechmere  had  you 
brought  here  from  the  field  to  her  own  house,  and  one  of 
the  best  it  is  in  Boston,  too  ; and  I expect  that  madam 
would  somehow  lose  her  title  to  it,  if  anything  serious 
should  happen  to  us  ! ” 

4 4 Such  as  a bayonet,  or  a troop  of  horse  ! but  why  do 
you  fancy  any  such  thing?  ” 

“ Because,  sir,  when  madam  comes  here  of  an  afternoon, 
which  she  did  daily,  before  she  sickened,  I heard  her  very 
often  say  to  herself,  if  you  should  be  so  unfortunate  as  to 
die,  there  would  be  an  end  to  all  her  hopes  of  her  house.” 
“Then  it  is  Mrs.  Lechmere  who  visits  me  daily,”  said 
Lionel,  thoughtfully;  “I  have  recollections  of  a female 
form  hovering  around  my  bed,  though  I had  supposed  it 
more  youthful  and  active  than  that  of  my  aunt.” 

44  And  you  are  quite  right,  sir;  you  have  had  such  a 
nurse  the  whole  time  as  is  seldom  to  be  met  with.  For 
making  a posset  or  a gruel,  I ’ll  match  her  with  the  oldest 
woman  in  the  wards  of  Guy’s  ; and,  to  my  taste,  the  best 
barkeeper  at  the  Lon’ non  is  a fool  to  her  at  a negus.” 


3L4onel  Lincoln 


221 


“ These  are  high  accomplishments,  indeed  ! and  who  may 
be  their  mistress  ? ’ ’ 

“ Miss  Agnus,  sir ; a rare  good  nurse  is  Miss  Agnus  Dan- 
forth  ! though  in  point  of  regard  to  the  troops,  I should  n’t 
presume  to  call  her  at  all  distinguishable.” 

“ Miss  Danforth,”  repeated  Lionel,  dropping  his  expect- 
ing eyes,  in  disappointment,  from  the  face  of  Meriton  to  the 
floor  ; “ I hope  she  has  not  sustained  all  this  trouble  on  my 
account  alone  ? There  are  women  enough  in  the  establish- 
ment ; one  would  think  such  offices  might  be  borne  by  the 
domestics  ; in  short,  Meriton,  was  she  without  an  assistant 
in  all  these  little  kindnesses  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ I helped  her,  you  know,  sir,  all  I could ; though  my 
neguses  never  touch  the  right  spot,  like  Miss  Agnus’.” 
“One  would  think,  by  your  account,  that  I have  done 
little  else  than  guzzle  port  wine  for  six  months,”  said  Lionel, 
pettishly. 

“ Lord,  sir,  you  would  n’t  drink  a thimbleful  from  a glass, 
often ; which  I always  took  for  a bad  symptom  ; for  I’m 
certain  ’t  was  no  fault  of  the  liquor,  if  it  was  n’t  drunk.” 

“ Well,  enough  of  your  favorite  beverage  ! I sicken  at 
the  name  already.  But,  Meriton,  have  not  others  of  my 
friends  called  to  inquire  after  my  fate  ? ’ ’ 

“Certainly,  sir;  the  commander-in-chief  sends  an  aid  or 
a servant  every  day ; and  Lord  Percy  left  his  card  more 
than — ’ ’ 

“ Poh  ! these  are  calls  of  courtesy.  But  I have  relatives 
in  Boston — Miss  Dynevor,  has  she  left  the  town?  ” 

“No,  sir,”  said  the  valet,  very  coolly  resuming  the  duty 
of  arranging  the  vials  on  the  night- table  ; ‘ ‘ she  is  not  much 
of  a moving  body,  is  that  Miss  Cecil.” 

“ She  is  not  ill,  I trust  ? ” demanded  Lionel. 

“Lord,  it  goes  through  me,  part  joy  and  part  fear,  to 
hear  you  speak  again  so  quick  and  brisk,  sir  ! No,  she 
is  n’t  downright  ailing,  but  she  has  n’t  the  life  and  knowledge 
of  things,  as  her  cousin,  Miss  Agnus.” 

“ Why  do  you  think  so,  fellow  ? ” 

“Because,  sir,  she  is  mopy,  and  don’t  turn  her  hand  to 
any  of  the  light  lady’s  work  in  the  family.  I have  seen 


222 


Xlonel  ^Lincoln 


her  sit  in  that  very  chair,  where  you  are  now,  sir,  for  hours 
together,  without  moving  ; unless  it  was  some  nervous  start 
when  you  groaned,  or  breathed  a little  upward  through 
your  honor’s  nose.  I have  taken  it  into  my  consideration, 
sir,  that  she  poetizes ; at  all  events,  she  likes  what  I calls 
quietude.” 

“Indeed!”  said  Lionel,  pursuing  the  conversation  with 
an  interest  that  would  have  struck  a more  observant  man 
as  remarkable.  “What  reason  have  you  for  suspecting 
Miss  Dynevor  of  manufacturing  rhymes  ? ’ ’ 

“ Because,  sir,  she  has  often  a bit  of  paper  in  her  hand  ; 
and  I have  seen  her  read  the  same  thing  over  and  over 
again,  till  I ’m  sure  she  must  know  it  by  heart ; which  your 
poetizers  always  do  with  what  they  writes.” 

“Perhaps  it  was  a letter?”  cried  Lionel,  with  a quick- 
ness that  caused  Meriton  to  drop  a vial  he  was  dusting,  at 
the  expense  of  its  contents. 

‘ ‘ Bless  me,  Master  Lionel,  how  strong,  and  like  old  times 
you  speak  ! ’ ’ 

“ I believe  I am  amazed  to  find  you  know  so  much  of  the 
divine  art,  Meriton.” 

‘ ‘ Practice  makes  perfect,  you  know,  sir,  ’ ’ said  the  simper- 
ing valet.  “ I can’t  say  I ever  did  much  in  that  way, 
though  I wrote  some  verses  on  a pet  pig,  as  died  down  at 
Ravenscliffe,  the  last  time  we  was  there  ; and  I got  con- 
siderable eclaw  for  a few  lines  on  a vase  which  Lady  Bab’s 
woman  broke  one  day,  in  a scuffle,  when  the  foolish  creature 
said  as  I wanted  to  kiss  her  ; though  all  that  knows  me, 
knows  that  I needn’t  break  vases  to  get  kisses  from  the 
like  of  her  ! ’ ’ 

“Very  well,”  said  Lionel;  “some  day,  when  I am 
stronger,  I may  like  to  be  indulged  with  a perusal.  Go 
now,  Meriton,  to  the  larder,  and  look  about  you  ; I feel 
the  symptoms  of  returning  health  grow  strong  upon  me.” 

The  gratified  valet  instantly  departed,  leaving  his  master 
to  the  musings  of  his  own  busy  fancy. 

Several  minutes  passed  away  before  the  young  man 
raised  his  head  from  the  hand  that  supported  it,  and  then 
it  was  only  done  when  he  thought  he  heard  a light  foot- 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


223 


step  near  him.  His  ear  had  not  deceived  him,  for  Cecil 
Dynevor  herself  stood  within  a few  feet  of  the  chair,  which 
concealed,  in  a great  measure,  his  person  from  her  view. 
It  was  apparent,  by  her  attitude  and  her  tread,  that  she 
expected  to  find  the  sick  where  she  had  seen  him  last,  and 
where,  for  so  many  dreary  months,  his  listless  form  had 
been  stretched  in  apathy.  Lionel  followed  her  graceful 
movements  with  his  eyes,  and  as  the  airy  band  of  her  morn- 
ing-cap waved  aside  at  her  own  breathing,  he  discovered 
the  unnatural  paleness  that  was  seated  on  her  speaking 
features.  But  when  she  drew  the  folds  of  the  bed-curtains, 
and  missed  the  invalid,  thought  is  not  quicker  than  the 
motion  with  which  she  turned  her  light  person  towards  the 
chair.  Here  she  encountered  the  eyes  of  the  young  man, 
beaming  on  her  with  delight,  and  expressing  all  that  anima- 
tion and  intelligence  to  which  they  had  so  long  been  stran- 
gers. Yielding  to  the  surprise  and  the  gush  of  her  feelings 
Cecil  flew  to  his  feet,  and  clasping  one  of  his  extended  hands 
in  both  her  own,  she  cried, — 

‘ ‘ Lionel,  dear  Lionel,  you  are  better  ! God  be  praised  ! 
you  look  well  again  ! ’ ’ 

Lionel  gently  extricated  his  hand  from  the  warm  and  un- 
guarded pressure  of  her  soft  fingers,  and  drew  forth  a paper 
which  she  had  unconsciously  committed  to  his  keeping. 

“This,  dearest  Cecil,”  he  whispered  to  the  blushing 
maiden,  “this  is  my  own  letter,  written  when  I knew  my 
life  to  be  at  imminent  hazard,  and  speaking  the  purest 
thoughts  of  my  heart.  Tell  me,  then,  it  has  not  been  thus 
kept  for  nothing  ? 5 ’ 

Cecil  dropped  her  face  between  her  hands  for  a moment, 
in  burning  shame,  and  then,  as  all  the  emotions  of  the  mo- 
ment crowded  around  her  heart,  she  yielded  to  them  as  a 
woman,  and  burst  into  a paroxysm  of  tears.  It  is  needless 
to  dwell  on  those  consoling  and  seducing  speeches  of  the 
young  man,  which  soon  succeeded  in  luring  his  companion 
not  only  from  her  sobs,  but  even  from  her  confusion,  and 
permitted  her  to  raise  her  beautiful  countenance  to  his  ardent 
gaze,  bright  and  confiding  as  his  fondest  wishes  could  have 
made  it. 


224 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


The  letter  of  Lionel  was  too  direct,  not  to  save  her  pride, 
and  it  had  been  too  often  perused  for  a single  sentence  to  be 
soon  forgotten.  Besides,  Cecil  had  watched  over  his  couch 
too  fondly  and  too  long,  to  indulge  in  any  of  those  little 
coquetries  which  are  sometimes  met  with  in  similar  scenes. 
She  said  all  that  an  affectionate,  generous,  and  modest  fe- 
male would  say  on  such  an  occasion ; and  it  is  certain  that, 
well  as  Lionel  looked  on  waking,  the  little  she  uttered  had 
the  effect  to  improve  his  appearance  tenfold. 

‘ ‘ And  you  received  my  letter  on  the  morning  after  the 
battle?  ” said  Lionel,  leaning  fondly  over  her,  as  she  still, 
unconsciously,  kneeled  by  his  side. 

“ Yes — yes  ; it  was  your  order  that  it  should  be  sent  to 
me  only  in  case  of  your  death  ; but  for  more  than  a month 
you  were  numbered  as  among  the  dead  by  us  all.  O ! what 
a month  was  that ! ’ ’ 

“ ’T  is  past,  my  sweet  friend,  and,  God  be  praised  ! I may 
now  look  forward  to  health  and  happiness.  ’ ’ 

“God  be  praised,  indeed  !”  murmured  Cecil,  the  tears 
again  rushing  to  her  eyes.  “ I would  not  live  that  month 
over  again,  Lionel,  for  all  that  this  world  can  offer  ! ” 

“ Dearest  Cecil,”  he  replied,  “ I can  only  repay  this  kind- 
ness and  suffering  on  my  account,  by  shielding  you  from  the 
rude  contact  of  the  world,  even  as  your  father  would  protect 
you,  were  he  again  in  being.” 

She  looked  up  in  his  face  with  all  the  soul  of  a woman's 
confidence  beaming  in  her  eyes,  as  she  answered, — 

“You  will,  Lincoln,  I know  you  will ; you  have  sworn  it, 
and  I should  be  a wretch  to  doubt  you.” 

He  drew  her  unresisting  form  into  his  arms,  and  folded 
her  to  his  bosom.  In  another  moment,  a noise,  like  one  as- 
cending the  stairs,  was  heard  through  the  open  door  of  the 
room,  when  all  the  feelings  of  her  sex  rushed  to  the  breast 
of  Cecil.  She  sprung  on  her  feet,  and,  hardly  allowing  time 
to  the  delighted  Lionel  to  note  the  burning  tints  that  suf- 
fused her  whole  face,  she  darted  from  the  room  with  the 
rapidity  and  lightness  of  an  antelope. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

“Dead,  for  a ducat,  dead.” 

Hamlet . 

WHITE  Lionel  was  in  the  confusion  of  feeling 
produced  by  the  foregoing  scene,  the  intruder, 
after  a prelude  of  singularly  heavy  and  loud 
steps,  on  the  floor,  as  if  some  one  approached 
on  crutches,  entered  by  a door  opposite  to  the  one  through 
which  Cecil  had  so  suddenly  vanished.  At  the  next  moment 
the  convalescent  was  saluted  by  the  full  cheerful  voice  of  his 
visitor, — 

“ God  bless  you,  Leo,  and  bless  the  whole  of  us,  for  we 
need  it!  ” cried  Polwarth,  eagerly  advancing  to  grasp  the 
extended  hands  of  his  friend.  ‘ ‘ Meriton  has  told  me  that 
you  have  got  the  true  mark  of  health — a good  appetite — at 
last.  I should  have  broken  my  neck  in  hurrying  up  to  wish 
you  joy  on  the  moment,  but  I just  stepped  into  the  kitchen, 
without  Mrs.  Lechmere’s  leave,  to  show  her  cook  how  to 
broil  the  steak  they  are  warming  through  for  you — a capital 
thing  after  a long  nap,  and  full  of  nutriment — God  bless 
you,  my  dear  Leo ; the  look  of  your  bright  eye  is  as 
stimulating  to  my  spirits  as  a West  India  pepper  is  to  the 
stomach.” 

Polwarth  ceased  shaking  the  hands  of  his  reanimated 
friend,  as  with  a husky  voice  he  concluded,  and  turning 
aside  under  the  pretence  of  reaching  a chair,  he  dashed  his 
hand  before  his  eyes,  gave  a loud  hem,  and  took  his  seat  in 
silence.  During  the  performance  of  this  evolution,  Lionel 
had  leisure  to  observe  the  altered  person  of  the  captain.  His 
form,  though  still  rotund  and  even  corpulent,  was  much  re- 
15  225 


22  6 


Xlonel  ^Lincoln 


duced  in  dimensions,  while,  in  the  place  of  one  of  those 
lower  members,  with  which  nature  furnishes  the  human 
race,  he  had  been  compelled  to  substitute  a leg  of  wood, 
somewhat  inartificially  made,  and  roughly  shod  with  iron. 
This  last  sad  alteration,  in  particular,  attracted  the  look  of 
Major  Lincoln,  who  continued  to  gaze  at  it  with  glistening 
eyes,  for  some  time  after  the  other  had  established  himself, 
to  his  entire  satisfaction,  in  one  of  the  cushioned  seats  of  the 
apartment. 

“ I see  my  frame- work  has  caught  your  eye,  Leo,”  said 
Polwarth,  raising  the  wooden  substitute  with  an  air  of 
affected  indifference,  and  tapping  it  lightly  with  his  cane. 

' ‘ ’ T is  not  as  gracefully  cut,  perhaps,  as  if  it  had  been 
turned  from  the  hands  of  Master  Phidias  ; but  in  a place 
like  Boston,  it  is  an  invaluable  member,  inasmuch  as  it 
knows  neither  hunger  nor  cold.” 

‘‘The  Americans,  then,  press  the  town,”  said  Lionel, 
glad  to  turn  the  subject,  “and  maintain  the  siege  with 
vigor?  ” 

“ They  have  kept  us  in  horrible  bodily  terror,  ever  since 
the  shallow  waters  towards  the  main-land  have  been  frozen, 
and  opened  a path  directly  into  the  heart  of  the  place. 
Their  Virginian  generalissimo,  Washington,  appeared  a 
short  time  after  the  affair  over  on  the  other  peninsula— a 
cursed  business  that,  Leo! — and  with  him  came  all  the 
trimmings  of  a large  army.  Since  that  time  they  have 
worn  a more  military  front,  though  little  else  has  been  done,  i 
excepting  an  occasional  skirmish,  but  cooping  us  up,  like 
so  many  uneasy  pigeons,  in  our  cage.”  > 

“And  Gage  chafes  not  at  the  confinement?  ” 

“Gage!— we  sent  him  off  like  the  soups,  months  ago. 
No,  no — the  moment  the  ministry  discovered  that  we  had 
come  to  our  forks,  in  good  earnest,  they  chose  Black  Billy 
to  preside ; and  now  we  stand  at  bay  with  the  rebels,  who 
have  already  learnt  that  our  leader  is  not  a child  at  the 
grand  entertainment  of  war.” 

“Yes,  seconded  by  such  men  as  Clinton  and  Burgoyne, 
and  supported  by  the  flower  of  our  troops,  the  position  can 
be  easily  maintained.” 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


227 


“ No  position  can  be  easily  maintained,  Major  Lincoln,” 
said  Polwarth,  promptly,  “in  the  face  of  starvation,  both 
internal  and  external.” 

“ And  is  the  case  so  desperate  ? ” 

“Of  that  you  shall  judge  yourself,  my  friend.  When 
Parliament  shut  the  port  of  Boston,  the  colonies  were  filled 
with  grumblers  ; and  now  we  have  opened  it,  and  would  be 
glad  to  see  their  supplies,  the  devil  a craft  enters  the  harbor 
willingly  ! Ah  ! Meriton,  you  have  the  steak,  I see  ; put 
it  here,  where  your  master  can  have  it  at  his  elbow,  and 
bring  another  plate  ; I breakfasted  but  indifferently  well 
this  morning.  So  we  are  thrown  completely  on  our  own 
resources.  But  the  rebels  do  not  let  us  enjoy  even  them  in 
peace.  This  thing  is  done  to  a turn — how  charmingly  the 
blood  follows  the  knife  ! They  have  gone  so  far  as  to  equip 
privateers,  who  cut  off  our  necessaries ; and  he  is  a lucky 
man  who  can  get  a meal  like  the  one  before  us.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ I had  not  thought  the  power  of  the  Americans  could 
have  forced  matters  to  such  a pass.” 

“ What  I have  mentioned,  though  of  vital  importance,  is 
not  half.  If  a man  is  happy  enough  to  obtain  the  materials 
for  a good  dish — you  should  have  rubbed  an  onion  over 
these  plates,  Mr.  Meriton — he  don’t  know  where  he  is  to 
find  fuel  to  cook  it  withal.” 

“Looking  at  the  comforts  with  which  I am  surrounded, 
my  good  friend,  I cannot  but  fancy  your  imagination 
heightens  the  distress.” 

“Fancy  no  such  silly  thing;  for  when  you  get  abroad, 
you  will  find  it  but  too  exact.  In  the  article  of  food,  if  we 
are  not  reduced,  like  the  men  of  Jerusalem,  to  eating  one 
another,  we  are,  half  the  time,  rather  worse  off,  being 
entirely  destitute  of  wholesome  nutriment.  Let  but  an 
unlucky  log  float  by  the  town  among  the  ice,  and  go  forth 
and  witness  the  struggling  and  skirmishing  between  the 
Yankees  and  our  frozen  fingers  for  its  possession,  and  you 
will  become  a believer  ! ’T  will  be  lucky  if  the  water-soaked 
relic  of  some  wharf  should  escape  without  a cannonade  ! I 
don’t  tell  you  these  things  as  a grumbler,  Leo  ; for,  thank 
God,  I have  only  half  as  many  toes  as  other  men,  to  keep 


228 


Xionel  Xtncoltt' 


warmth  in  ; and  as  for  eating,  a little  will  suffice  for  me, 
now  my  corporeal  establishment  is  so  sadly  reduced.” 

Lionel  paused  in  melancholy,  as  his  friend  attempted 
to  jest  at  his  misfortune,  and  then,  by  a very  natural  tran- 
sition, for  a young  man  in  his  situation,  he  proudly  ex- 
claimed,— 

‘ ‘ But  we  gained  the  day,  Polwarth ! and  drove  the 
rebels  from  their  intrenchments,  like  chaff  before  a whirl- 
wind ! ” 

“Humph  !”  ejaculated  the  captain,  laying  his  wooden 
leg  carefully  over  its  more  valuable  fellow,  and  regarding  it 
ruefully,  while  he  spoke  ; “ had  we  made  a suitable  use  of 
the  bounties  of  nature,  and  turned  their  position,  instead  of 
running  into  the  jaws  of  the  beast,  many  might  have  left 
the  field  better  supplied  with  appurtenances  than  are  some 
among  us  at  present.  But  dark  William  loves  a brush, 
they  say,  and  he  enjoyed  it,  on  that  occasion,  to  his  heart’s 
content  ! ” 

‘ ‘ He  must  be  grateful  to  Clinton  for  his  timely  presence  ! ’ ’ 
‘ ‘ Does  the  devil  delight  in  martyrdom  ? The  presence 
of  a thousand  rebels  would  have  been  more  welcome,  even 
at  that  moment ; nor  has  he  smiled  once  on  his  good- 
natured  assistant,  since  he  thrust  himself,  in  that  unwelcome 
manner,  between  him  and  his  enemy.  We  had  enough  to 
think  of,  with  our  dead  and  wounded,  and  in  maintaining 
our  conquest,  or  something  more  than  black  looks  and 
unkind  eyes  would  have  followed  the  deed.” 

‘ ‘ I fear  to  inquire  into  the  fortunes  of  the  field,  so  many 
names  of  worth  must  be  numbered  in  the  loss.” 

4 ‘ Twelve  or  fifteen  hundred  men  are  not  to  be  knocked 
on  the  head  out  of  such  an  army,  and  all  the  clever  fellows 
escape.  Gage,  I know,  calls  the  loss  something  like  eleven 
hundred ; but,  after  vaporing  so  much  about  the  Yankees, 
their  prowess  is  not  to  be  acknowledged  in  its  bloom  at 
once.  A man  seldom  goes  on  one  leg,  but  he  halts  a little 
at  first,  as  I can  say  from  experience— put  down  thirteen, 
Leo,  as  a medium,  and  you  ’ll  not  miscalculate  largely  ; yes, 
indeed,  there  were  some  brave  young  men  amongst  them  ! 
Those  rascally  light-footed  gentry,  that  I gave  up  so  oppor- 


Xfonel  Xtncoln 


229 


tunely,  were  finely  peppered ; and  there  were  the  Fusileers 
had  hardly  men  enough  left  to  saddle  their  goat ! ’” 

‘ ‘ And  the  marines  ! they  must  have  suffered  heavily  ; I 
saw  Pitcairn  fall  before  me/’  said  Lionel,  speaking  with1 
hesitation.  “ I greatly  fear  our  old  comrade,  the  grenadier, 
did  not  escape  with  better  fortune. 9 1 

“ Mac  ! 99  exclaimed  Polwarth,  casting  a furtive  glance  at 
his  companion.  “ Ay,  Mac  was  not  as  lucky  in  that  busi- 
ness as  he  was  in  Germany — he-em — Mac — had  an  obstinate 
way  with  him,  Leo ; a damned  obstinate  fellow  in  all  mili- 
tary matters  ; but  as  generous  a heart,  and  as  free  in  sharing 
a mess-bill  as  any  man  in  his  majesty’s  service  ! I crossed 
the  river  in  the  same  boat  with  him,  and  he  entertained  us 
with  his  queer  thoughts  on  the  art  of  war.  According  to 
Mac’s  notions  of  things,  the  grenadiers  were  to  do  all  the 
fighting — a damned  odd  way  with  him  had  Mac  ! ” 

“ There  are  few  of  us  without  peculiarities,  and  I could 
wish  that  none  of  them  were  more  offensive  than  the  trifling 
prejudices  of  poor  Dennis  M’Fuse.” 

4 ‘Yes,  yes,”  added  Polwarth,  hemming  violently,  as  if 
determined  to  clear  his  throat  at  every  hazard  ; “he  was  a 
little  opinionated  in  trifles,  such  as  a knowledge  of  war,  and 
matters  of  discipline ; but  in  all  important  things  as  tract- 
able as  a child.  He  loved  to  joke,  but  it  was  impossible  to 
have  a less  difficult  or  more  unpretending  palate  in  one’s 
mess  ! The  greatest  evil  I can  wish  him  is  breath  in  his 
body,  to  live  and  enjoy,  in  these  hard  times,  when  things 
become  excellent  by  comparison,  the  sagacious  provision 
which  his  own  ingenuity  contrived  to  secure  out  of  the 
cupidity  of  our  ancient  landlord,  Mister  Seth  Sage.” 

‘ ‘ Then  that  notable  scheme  did  not  entirely  fall  to  the 
ground,”  said  Lionel,  with  a feverish  desire  to  change  the 
subject  once  more.  “ I had  thought  the  Americans  were 
too  vigilant  to  admit  the  intercourse.” 

1 This  regiment  in  consequence  of  some  tradition,  kept  a goat,  with 
gilded  horns,  as  a memorial.  Once  a year  it  celebrated  a festival,  in 
which  the  bearded  quadruped  acted  a conspicuous  part.  In  the  battle 
of  Bunker  Hill,  the  corps  was  distinguished  alike  for  its  courage  and 
its  losses. 


230 


3Uonel  Xirtcoln 


“Seth  has  been  too  sagacious  to  permit  them  to  obstruct 
it.  The  prices  acted  like  a soporific  on  his  conscience,  and 
by  using  your  name,  I believe,  he  has  formed  some  friend 
of  sufficient  importance  amongst  the  rebels  to  protect  him 
in  his  trade.  His  supplies  made  their  appearance  twice  a 
week  as  regularly  as  the  meats  follow  the  soups  in  a well- 
ordered  banquet.’  ’ 

“You  then  can  communicate  with  the  country,  and  the 
country  with  the  town  ! Although  Washington  may  wink 
at  the  proceeding,  I should  fear  the  scowl  of  Howe.” 

‘ ‘ Why,  in  order  to  prevent  suspicions  of  unfair  practices, 
and  at  the  same  time  to  serve  the  cause  of  humanity,  so  the 
explanation  reads,  you  know,  our  sapient  host  has  seen  fit 
to  employ  a fool  as  his  agent  in  the  intercourse  ; a fellow, 
as  you  may  remember,  of  some  notoriety  ; a certain  simple- 
ton, who  calls  himself  Job  Pray.” 

Lionel  continued  silent  for  many  moments,  during  which 
time  his  recollections  began  to  revive,  and  his  thoughts 
glanced  over  the  scenes  that  occurred  in  the  first  months  of 
his  residence  in  Boston.  It  is  quite  possible  that  a painful, 
though  still  general  and  indefinite  feeling  mingled  with  his 
musings ; for  he  evidently  strove  to  expel  some  such  un- 
welcome intruder,  as  he  resumed  the  discourse  with  a strong 
appearance  of  forced  gayety. 

“Ay,  ay,  I well  remember  poor  Job, — a fellow,  once  seen 
and  known,  not  easily  to  be  forgotten.  He  used,  of  old,  to 
attach  himself  greatly  to  my  person,  but  I suppose,  like  the 
rest  of  the  world,  I am  neglected  when  in  retirement.” 

“You  do  the  lad  injustice;  he  not  only  makes  frequent 
inquiries,  after  his  slovenly  manner,  I acknowledge,  concern- 
ing your  condition,  but  sometimes  he  seems  better  informed 
in  the  matter  than  myself,  and  can  requite  my  frequent 
answers  to  his  questions,  by  imparting,  instead  of  receiving, 
intelligence  of  your  improvement ; more  especially  since  the 
ball  has  been  extracted. 

“ That  should  be  very  singular,  too,”  said  Lionel,  with  a 
still  more  thoughtful  brow. 

“Not  so  very  remarkable,  Leo,  as  one  would  at  first  im- 
agine, ’ ’ interrupted  his  companion  ; ‘ 4 the  lad  is  not  wanting 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


231 


in  sagacity,  as  he  manifested  by  his  choice  of  dishes  at  our 
old  mess-table.  Ah  ! Leo,  Leo,  we  may  see  many  a discrimi- 
nating palate,  but  where  shall  we  go  to  find  another  such  a 
friend  ! one  who  could  eat  and  joke,  drink  and  quarrel  with 
a man,  in  a breath,  like  poor  Dennis,  who  is  gone  from 
among  us  forever  ! There  was  a piquancy  about  poor  Mac, 
that  acted  on  the  dulness  of  life  like  condiments  on  the 
natural  appetite  ! ’ ’ 

Meriton,  who  was  diligently  brushing  his  master's  coat, 
an  office  that  he  performed  daily,  though  the  garment  had 
not  been  worn  in  so  long  a period,  stole  a glance  at  the 
averted  eye  of  the  major,  and  understanding  its  expression 
to  indicate  a determined  silence,  he  ventured  to  maintain 
the  discourse  in  his  own  unworthy  person. 

“Yes,  sir,  a nice  gentleman  was  Captain  M’Fuse,  and 
one  as  fought  as  stoutly  for  the  king  as  any  gentleman 
in  the  army,  all  agrees.  It  was  a thousand  pities  such  a 
fine  figure  of  a man  had  n’t  a better  idea  of  dress  ; it  is  n’t 
all,  sir,  as  is  gifted  in  that  way.  But  everybody  says  he ’s 
a detrimental  loss,  though  there ’s  some  officers  in  town 
who  consider  so  little  how  to  wear  their  ornaments,  that 
if  they  were  to  be  shot,  I am  sure  no  one  would  miss 
them.” 

“Ah  ! Meriton,”  cried  the  full-hearted  Polwarth,  “I  see 
you  are  a youth  of  more  observation  than  I had  suspected. 
Mac  had  all  the  seeds  of  a man  in  him,  though  some  of 
them  might  not  have  come  to  maturity.  There  was  a 
flavor  in  his  humor,  that  served  as  a relish  to  every  con- 
versation in  which  he  mingled.  Did  you  serve  the  poor 
fellow  up  in  handsome  style,  Meriton,  for  his  last  worldly 
exhibition  ? ’ ’ 

“Yes,  indeed,  sir;  we  gave  him  as  ornamental  a funeral 
as  can  be  seen  out  of  Lon’ non.  Besides  the  Royal  Irish,  all 
the  grenadiers  was  out ; that  is,  all  as  was  n’t  hurt,  which 
was  near  half  of  them.  As  I knowed  the  regard  Master 
Lionel  had  for  the  captain,  I dressed  him  with  my  own 
hands ; I trimmed  his  whiskers,  sir,  and  altered  his  hair 
more  in  front ; and  seeing  that  his  honor  was  getting  a little 
gray,  I threw  on  a sprinkling  of  powder,  and  as  handsome 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


232 


a corpse  was  Captain  M’Fuse  as  any  gentleman  in  the  army, 
let  the  other  be  who  he  may  ! ’ ’ 

The  eyes  of  Polwarth  twinkled,  and  he  blew  his  nose 
with  a noise  not  unlike  the  sound  of  a clarion,  ere  he  re- 
joined,— 

“ Yes,  yes,  time  and  hardships  had  given  a touch  of  frost 
to  the  head  of  the  poor  fellow  ; but  it  is  a consolation  to  know 
that  he  died  like  a soldier,  and  not  by  the  hands  of  that  vul- 
gar butcher,  Nature  ; and  that,  being  dead,  he  was  removed 
according  to  his  deserts  ! ” 

“ Indeed,  sir,”  said  Meriton,  with  a solemnity  worthy  of 
the  occasion,  “we  gave  him  a great  procession  ; a great  deal 
can  be  made  out  of  his  majesty’s  uniform,  on  such  festivities, 
and  it  had  a wonderful  look  about  it  ! Did  you  speak, 
sir  ? ” 

“Yes,”  added  Lionel,  impatiently;  “remove  the  cloth; 
and  go,  inquire  if  there  be  letters  for  me.” 

The  valet  submissively  obeyed,  and  after  a short  pause 
the  dialogue  was  resumed  by  the  gentlemen  on  subjects  of  a 
less  painful  nature. 

As  Polwarth  was  exceedingly  communicative,  Lionel  soon 
obtained  a very  general,  and,  to  do  the  captain  suitable  jus- 
tice, an  extremely  impartial  account  of  the  situation  of  the 
hostile  forces,  as  well  as  of  all  the  leading  events  that  had 
transpired  since  the  day  of  Breed’s.  Once  or  twice  the  invalid 
ventured  an  allusion  to  the  spirit  of  the  rebels,  and  to  the 
unexpected  energy  they  had  discovered  ; but  Polwarth  heard 
them  all  in  silence,  answering  only  by  a melancholy  smile, 
and,  in  the  last  instance,  by  a significant  gesture  towards 
his  unnatural  supporter.  Of  course,  after  this  touching 
acknowledgment  of  his  former  error,  his  friend  waived  the 
subject  for  others  less  personal. 

He  learned  that  the  royal  general  maintained  his  hardly- 
earned  conquest  on  the  opposite  peninsula,  where  he  was  as 
effectually  beleaguered,  however,  as  in  the  town  of  Boston 
itself.  In  the  meantime,  while  the  war  was  conducted  in 
earnest  at  the  point  where  it  commenced,  hostilities  had 
broken  out  in  every  one  of  those  colonies,  south  of  the  St. 
Lawrence  and  the  Grgat  Lakes,  where  the  presence  of  the 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


233 


royal  troops  invited  an  appeal  to  force.  At  first,  while  the 
colonists  acted  under  the  impulses  of  the  high  enthusiasm  of 
a sudden  rising,  they  had  been  everywhere  successful.  A 
general  army  had  been  organized,  as  already  related,  and 
divisions  were  employed  at  different  points  to  effect  those 
conquests  which,  in  that  early  state  of  the  struggle,  were 
thought  to  be  important  to  the  main  result.  But  the  effects 
of  their  imperfect  means  and  divided  power  were  already 
becoming  visible.  After  a series  of  minor  victories,  Mont- 
gomery had  fallen  in  a most  desperate  and  unsuccessful  at- 
tempt to  carry  the  impregnable  fortress  of  Quebec ; and, 
ceasing  to  be  the  assailants,  the  Americans  were  gradually 
compelled  to  collect  their  resources  to  meet  that  mighty 
effort  of  the  crown  which  was  known  to  be  not  far  distant. 
As  thousands  of  their  fellow-subjects  in  the  mother  country 
manifested  a strong  repugnance  to  the  war,  the  ministry  so 
far  submitted  to  the  influence  of  that  free  spirit,  which  first 
took  deep  root  in  Britain,  as  to  turn  their  eyes  to  those 
States  of  Europe,  who  made  a trade  in  human  life,  in  quest 
of  mercenaries  to  quell  the  temper  of  the  colonists.  In  con- 
sequence, the  fears  of  the  timid  amongst  the  Americans  were 
excited  by  rumors  of  the  vast  hordes  of  Russians  and  Ger- 
mans, who  were  to  be  poured  into  their  country,  with  the 
fell  intent  to  make  them  slaves.  Perhaps  no  step  of  their 
enemies  had  a greater  tendency  to  render  them  odious  in  the 
eyes  of  the  Americans,  than  this  measure  of  introducing 
foreigners  to  decide  a quarrel  purely  domestic.  So  long  as 
none  but  men  who  had  been  educated  in  those  acknowledged 
principles  of  justice  and  law,  known  to  both  people,  were  ad- 
mitted to  the  contest,  there  were  visible  points,  common  to 
each,  which  might  render  the  struggle  less  fierce,  and  in 
time  lead  to  a permanent  reconciliation.  But  they  reasoned 
not  inaptly,  when  they  asserted,  that  in  a contest  rendered 
triumphant  by  slaves,  nothing  but  abject  submission  could 
ensue  to  the  conquered.  It  was  like  throwing  away  the 
scabbard,  and,  b}^  abandoning  reason,  submitting  the  result 
to  the  sword  alone.  In  addition  to  the  estrangement  these 
measures  were  gradually  increasing  between  the  people  of 
the  mother  country  and  the  colonies,  must  be  added  the 


234 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


change  it  produced  amongst  the  latter  in  their  habits  of  re- 
garding the  person  of  their  prince. 

During  the  whole  of  the  angry  discussion,  and  the  recrim- 
inations, which  preceded  the  drawing  of  blood,  the  colonists 
had  admitted,  to  the  fullest  extent,  not  only  in  their  lan- 
guage, but  in  their  feelings,  that  fiction  of  the  British  law, 
which  says  ‘‘The  king  can  do  no  wrong.”  Throughout  the 
wide  extent  of  an  empire,  on  which  the  sun  was  never  known 
to  set,  the  English  monarch  could  boast  of  no  subjects  more 
devoted  to  his  family  and  person,  than  the  men  who  now 
stood  in  arms  against  what  they  honestly  believed  to  be 
the  unconstitutional  encroachments  of  his  power.  Hitherto 
the  whole  weight  of  their  resentment  had  justly  fallen 
on  the  advisers  of  the  prince,  who  himself  was  thought 
to  be  ignorant,  as  he  was  probably  innocent,  of  the  abuses 
so  generally  practised  in  his  name.  But  as  the  contest 
thickened,  the  natural  feelings  of  the  man  were  thought  to 
savor  of  the  political  acts  he  was  required  to  sanction  with 
his  name.  It  was  soon  whispered,  amongst  those  who  had 
the  best  means  of  intelligence,  that  the  feelings  of  the  sover- 
eign were  deeply  interested  in  the  maintenance  of  what  he 
deemed  his  prerogative,  and  the  ascendency  of  that  body  of 
the  representatives  of  his  empire,  which  he  met  in  person 
and  influenced  by  his  presence.  Ere  long  this  opinion  was 
rumored  abroad,  and  as  the  minds  of  men  began  to  loosen 
from  their  ancient  attachments  and  prejudices,  they  con- 
founded, by  a very  natural  feeling,  the  head  with  the  mem- 
bers ; forgetting  that  ‘ ‘ Liberty  and  Equality  5 ’ formed  no 
part  of  the  trade  of  princes.  The  name  of  the  monarch  was 
daily  falling  into  disrepute  ; and  as  the  colonial  writers  ven- 
tured to  allude  more  freely  to  his  person  and  power,  the 
glimmerings  of  that  light  were  seen,  which  was  a precursor 
of  the  rise  of  “ the  stars  of  the  West  ” amongst  the  national 
symbols  of  the  earth.  Until  then,  few  had  thought,  and 
none  had  ventured  to  speak  openly,  of  independence,  though 
events  had  been  silently  preparing  the  colonists  for  such  a 
final  measure. 

Allegiance  to  the  prince  was  the  last  and  only  tie  to  be 
severed  ; for  the  colonies  already  governed  themselves  in  all 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


235 


matters,  whether  of  internal  or  foreign  policy,  as  effectually 
as  any  people  could,  whose  right  to  do  so  was  not  generally 
acknowledged.  But  as  the  honest  nature  of  George  III. 
admitted  of  no  disguise,  mutual  disgust  and  alienation  were 
the  natural  consequences  of  the  reaction  of  sentiment 
between  the  prince  and  his  western  people.1 

All  this,  and  much  more  of  minute  detail,  was  hastily 
commented  on  by  Polwarth,  who  possessed,  in  the  midst  of 
his  epicurean  propensities,  sterling  good  sense,  and  great 
integrity  of  intention.  Lionel  was  chiefly  a listener,  nor  did 
he  cease  the  greedy  and  interesting  employment  until  warned 
by  his  weakness,  and  the  stroke  of  a neighboring  clock,  that 
he  was  trespassing  too  far  on  prudence.  His  friend  then 
assisted  the  exhausted  invalid  to  his  bed  ; and  after  giving 
him  a world  of  good  advice,  together  with  a warm  pressure 
of  the  hand,  he  stumped  his  way  out  of  the  room,  with  a 
noise  that  brought,  at  every  tread,  an  echo  from  the  heart 
of  Major  Lincoln. 

1 The  prejudices  of  the  king  of  England  were  unavoidable  in  his 
insulated  situation,  but  his  virtues  and  integrity  were  exclusively  the 
property  of  the  man.  His  speech  to  our  first  minister  after  the  peace 
cannot  be  too  often  recorded  : “I  was  the  last  man  in  my  kingdom  to 
acknowledge  your  independence,  and  I shall  be  the  last  to  violate 
it.” 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


“ God  never  meant  that  man  should  scale  the  heavens 
By  strides  of  human  wisdom.” 


COWPER. 


AVERY  few  days  of  gentle  exercise  in  the  bracing 
air  of  the  season,  were  sufficient  to  restore  the 
strength  of  the  invalid,  whose  wounds  had  healed 
while  he  lay  slumbering  under  the  influence  of  the 
anodynes  prescribed  by  his  leech.  Polwarth,  in  consider- 
ation of  the  dilapidated  state  of  his  own  limbs,  together  with 
the  debility  of  Lionel,  had  so  far  braved  the  ridicule  of  the 
army,  as  to  set  up  one  of  those  comfortable  and  easy  convey- 
ances, which,  in  the  good  old  times  of  colonial  humility, 
were  known  by  the  quaint  and  unpretending  title  of  tom- 
pungs.  To  equip  this  establishment,  he  had  been  compelled 
to  impress  one  of  the  fine  hunters  of  his  friend.  The  animal 
had  been  taught,  by  virtue  of  much  training  from  his  groom, 
aided  a little,  perhaps,  by  the  low  state  of  the  garners  of  the 
place,  to  amble  through  the  snow  as  quietly  as  if  he  were 
conscious  of  the  altered  condition  of  his  master’s  health.  In 
this  safe  vehicle  the  two  gentlemen  might  be  seen  daily, 
gliding  along  the  upper  streets  of  the  town,  and  moving 
through  the  winding  paths  of  the  common,  receiving  the 
congratulations  of  their  friends ; or,  in  their  turn,  visiting 
others,  who,  like  themselves,  had  been  wounded  in  the 
murderous  battle  of  the  preceding  summer,  but  who,  less 
fortunate  than  they,  were  still  compelled  to  submit  to  the 
lingering  confinement  of  their  quarters. 

It  was  not  difficult  to  persuade  Cecil  and  Agnes  to  join  in 
many  of  their  short  excursions,  though  no  temptation  could 

236 


Xtonei  Xtncoln 


237 


induce  the  latter  to  still  the  frown  that  habitually  settled  on 
her  beautiful  brow,  whenever  chance  or  intention  brought 
them  in  contact  with  any  of  the  gentlemen  of  the  army. 
Miss  Dynevor  was,  however,  much  more  conciliating  in  her 
deportment,  and  even,  at  times,  so  gracious  as  to  incur  the 
private  reproaches  of  her  friend. 

“Surely,  Cecil,  you  forget  how  much  our  poor  country- 
men are  suffering  in  their  miserable  lodgings  without  the 
town,  or  you  would  be  less  prodigal  of  your  condescension 
to  these  butterflies  of  the  army,”  cried  Agnes,  pettishly, 
while  they  were  uncloaking  after  one  of  these  rides,  during 
which  the  latter  thought  her  cousin  had  lost  sight  of  that 
tacit  compact,  by  which  most  of  the  women  of  the  colonies 
deemed  themselves  bound  to  exhibit  their  feminine  resent- 
ments to  their  invaders.  “ Were  a chief  from  our  own  army 
presented  to  you,  he  could  not  have  been  received  in  a 
sweeter  manner  than  you  bestowed  your  smile  to-day  on  that 
Sir  Digby  Dent  ! ’ ’ 

“ I can  say  nothing  in  favor  of  its  sweetness,  my  acid 
cousin,  but  that  Sir  Digby  Dent  is  a gentleman — ” 

“A  gentleman  ! — yes — so  is  every  Englishman  who  wears 
a scarlet  coat,  and  knows  how  to  play  off  his  airs  in  the 
colonies  ! ’ ’ 

“ And  as  I hope  I have  some  claims  to  be  called  a lady,” 
continued  Cecil,  quietly,  “I  do  not  know  why,  in  the  little 
intercourse  we  have,  I should  be  rude  to  him.” 

“ Cecil  Dynevor  ! ” exclaimed  Agnes,  with  a sparkling  eye, 
and  with  a woman’s  intuitive  perception  of  the  other’s  mo- 
tives, “ all  Englishmen  are  not  Eionel  Lincolns.  ” 

“Nor  is  Major  Lincoln  an  Englishman,”  returned  Cecil, 
laughing,  while  she  blushed ; ‘ ‘ though  I have  reason  to 
think  that  Captain  Polwarth  may  be.” 

“ Silly,  child,  silly  ; the  poor  man  has  paid  the  penalty  of 
his  offence,  and  is  to  be  regarded  with  pity.” 

“ Have  a care,  my  coz.  Pity  is  one  of  a large  connection 
of  gentle  feelings  ; when  you  once  admit  the  first-born,  you 
may  leave  open  your  doors  to  the  whole  family.  ’ ’ 

“Now  that  is  exactly  the  point  in  question,  Cecil — be- 
cause you  esteem  Major  Lincoln,  you  are  willing  to  admire 


238 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


Howe  and  all  his  myrmidons ; but  I can  pity,  and  still  be 
firm.” 

“ Le  bon  temps  viendra  ! ” 

“ Never  ! ” interrupted  Agnes,  with  a warmth  that  pre- 
vented her  perceiving  how  much  she  admitted  ; ‘ ‘ never,  at 
least  under  the  guise  of  a scarlet  coat.” 

Cecil  smiled,  but  having  completed  her  toilet,  she  with- 
drew without  making  any  reply. 

Such  little  discussions,  enlivened  more  or  less  by  the  pe- 
culiar spirit  of  Agnes,  were  of  frequent  occurrence,  though 
the  eye  of  her  cousin  became  daily  more  thoughtful,  and  the 
indifference  with  which  she  listened  was  more  apparent  in 
each  succeeding  dialogue. 

In  the  meantime,  the  affairs  of  the  siege,  though  con- 
ducted with  extreme  caution,  amounted  only  to  a vigilant 
blockade. 

The  Americans  lay  by  thousands  in  the  surrounding  vil- 
lages, or  were  hutted  in  strong  bands  nigh  the  batteries 
which  commanded  the  approaches  to  the  place.  Notwith- 
standing their  means  had  been  greatly  increased  by  the  cap- 
ture of  several  vessels  loaded  with  warlike  stores,  as  well  as 
by  the  reduction  of  two  important  fortresses  towards  the 
Canadian  frontiers,  they  were  still  too  scanty  to  admit  of  that 
wasteful  expenditure  which  is  the  usual  accompaniment  of 
war.  In  addition  to  their  necessities,  as  a reason  for  forbear- 
ance, might  also  be  mentioned  the  feelings  of  the  colonists, 
who  were  anxious,  in  mercy  to  themselves,  to  regain  their 
town  with  rs  little  injury  as  possible.  On  the  other  hand, 
the  impression  made  by  the  battle  of  Bunker  Hill  was  still 
so  vivid  as  to  curb  the  enterprise  of  the  royal  commanders, 
and  Washington  had  been  permitted  to  hold  their  powerful 
forces  in  check,  by  an  untrained  and  half-armed  multitude, 
that  was,  at  times,  absolutely  destitute  of  the  means  of 
maintaining  even  a momentary  conquest. 

As,  however,  a show  of  hostilities  was  maintained,  the  re- 
ports of  cannon  were  frequently  heard,  and  there  were  days 
when  skirmishes  between  the  advanced  parties  of  the  two 
hosts  brought  on  more  heavy  firings,  which  continued  for 
longer  periods.  The  ears  of  the  ladies  had  been  long  ac- 


Xionel  Xincoln 


'239 


customed  to  these  rude  sounds,  and  as  the  trifling  loss  which 
followed  was  altogether  confined  to  the  outworks,  they  were 
listened  to  with  but  little  or  no  terror. 

In  this  manner  a fortnight  flew  swiftly  away  without  an 
incident  to  be  related.  One  fine  morning  at  the  end  of  that 
period,  Polwarth  drove  into  the  little  courtyard  of  Mrs. 
Lechmere’s  residence,  with  all  those  knowing  flourishes  he 
could  command,  and  which,  in  the  year  1775,  were  thought 
to  indicate  the  greatest  familiarity  with  the  properties  of  a 
tom-pung.  In  another  minute  his  wooden  member  was 
heard  in  the  passage,  timing  his  steps,  as  he  approached  the 
room  where  the  rest  of  the  party  were  waiting  his  appear- 
ance. The  two  cousins  stood  wrapped  in  furs,  with  their 
smiling  faces  blooming  beneath  double  rows  of  lace  to  soften 
the  picture,  while  Major  Lincoln  was  in  the  act  of  taking 
his  cloak  from  Meriton,  as  the  door  opened  for  the  admission 
of  the  captain. 

‘ ‘ What,  already  dished  ! ’ ’ exclaimed  the  good-natured 
Polwarth,  glancing  his  eyes  from  one  to  the  other;  “so 
much  the  better  ; punctuality  is  the  true  leaven  of  life — a 
good  watch  is  as  necessary  to  the  guest  as  the  host,  and  to 
the  host  as  his  cook.  Miss  Agnes,  you  are  amazingly  mur- 
derous to-day  ! If  Howe  expects  his  subalterns  to  do  their 
duty,  he  should  not  suffer  you  to  go  at  large  in  his  camp.” 
The  fine  eye  of  Miss  Danforth  sparkled  as  he  proceeded, 
but  happening  to  fall  on  his  mutilated  person,  its  expression 
softened,  and  she  was  content  with  answering  with  a smile, — 
‘ ‘ Let  your  general  look  to  himself ; I seldom  go  abroad 
but  to  espy  his  weakness  ! ’ ’ 

The  captain  gave  an  expressive  shrug  of  his  shoulder 
and  turning  aside  to  his  friend,  said  in  an  undertone, — 
“You  see  how  it  is,  Major  Lincoln;  ever  since  I have 
been  compelled  to  serve  myself  up,  like  a turkey  from  yes- 
terday’s dinner,  with  a single  leg,  I have  not  been  able  to 
get  a sharp  reply  from  the  young  woman — she  has  grown 
an  even-tempered,  tasteless  morsel ; and  I am  like  a two- 
pronged fork— only  fit  for  carving ; well,  I care  not  how 
soon  they  cut  me  up  entirely,  since  she  has  lost  her  piq- 
uancy ; but  shall  we  to  the  church  ? ” 


240 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


Lionel  looked  a little  embarrassed,  and  fingered  a paper 
he  held  in  his  hand,  for  a moment,  before  he  handed  it  to 
the  other  for  his  perusal. 

‘ ‘ What  have  we  here  ? ’ ’ continued  Polwarth  : ‘ 4 ‘ Two 
officers,  wounded  in  the  late  battle,  desire  to  return  thanks 
for  their  recovery  ’ — hum — hum — hum — two  ? — yourself,  and 
who  is  the  other?  99 

“ I had  hoped  it  would  be  my  old  companion  and  school- 
fellow. 9 ’ 

‘‘Ha!  what,  me!”  exclaimed  the  captain,  unconsciously 
elevating  his  wooden  leg,  and  examining  it  with  a rueful 
eye  ; “ umph  ! Leo,  do  you  think  a man  has  a particular 
reason  to  be  grateful  for  the  loss  of  a leg  ? 5 ’ 

“ It  might  have  been  worse.” 

“I  don’t  know,”  interrupted  Polwarth,  a little  obsti- 
nately ; ‘ ‘ there  would  have  been  more  symmetry  in  it,  if 
it  had  been  both.  ’ ’ 

“You  forget  your  mother,”  continued  Lionel,  as  though 
the  other  had  not  spoken  ; “I  am  very  sure  it  will  give  her 
heartfelt  pleasure. 9 ’ 

Polwarth  gave  a loud  hem,  rubbed  his  hand  over  his  face 
once  or  twice,  gave  another  furtive  glance  at  his  solitary 
limb,  and  then  answered  with  a little  tremor  in  his  voice, — 

“Yes,  yes — I believe  you  are  quite  right — a mother  can 
love  her  child,  though  he  should  be  chopped  into  mince- 
meat ! The  sex  get  that  generous  feeling  after  they  are 
turned  of  forty — it’s  your  young  woman  that  is  particular 
about  proportions  and  correspondents.  ’ ’ 

“You  consent,  then,  that  Meriton  shall  hand  in  the  re- 
quest, as  it  reads  ? ’ ’ 

Polwarth  hesitated  a single  instant  longer,  and  then,  as 
he  remembered  his  distant  mother  (for  Lionel  had  touched 
the  right  chord),  his  heart  melted  within  him. 

‘ ‘ Certainly,  certainly — it  might  have  been  worse,  as  it 
was  with  poor  Dennis — ay,  let  it  pass  for  two  ; it  shall  go 
hard,  but  I find  a knee  to  bend  on  the  occasion.  Perhaps, 
Leo,  when  a certain  young  lady  sees  I can  have  a Te  Deum 
for  my  adventure,  she  may  cease  to  think  me  such  an  object 
of  pity  as  at  present.” 


Xioitel  ^Lincoln 


24I 


Lionel  bowed  in  silence,  and  the  captain,  turning  to 
Agnes,  conducted  her  to  the  sleigh  with  a particularly  lofty 
air,  that  he  intended  should  indicate  his  perfect  superiority 
to  the  casualties  of  war.  Cecil  took  the  arm  of  Major 
Lincoln,  and  the  whole  party  were  soon  seated  in  the  vehi- 
cle that  was  in  waiting. 

Until  this  day,  which  was  the  second  Sunday  since  his 
reappearance,  and  the  first  on  which  the  weather  permitted 
him  to  go  abroad,  Lionel  had  no  opportunity  to  observe  the 
altered  population  of  the  town.  The  inhabitants  had  grad- 
ually left  the  place,  some  clandestinely,  and  others  under 
favor  of  passes  from  the  royal  general,  until  those  who 
remained  were  actually  outnumbered  by  the  army  and 
its  dependents.  As  the  party  approached  the  “ King’s 
Chapel,”  the  street  was  crowded  by  military  men,  collected 
in  groups,  who  indulged  in  thoughtless  merriment,  reckless 
of  the  wounds  their  light  conversation  inflicted  on  the  few 
townsmen,  who  might  be  seen  moving  towards  the  church, 
with  deportments  suited  to  the  solemnity  of  their  purpose, 
and  countenances  severely  chastened  by  a remembrance  of 
the  day,  and  its  serious  duties.  Indeed,  so  completely  had 
Boston  lost  that  distinctive  appearance  of  sobriety,  which 
had  ever  been  the  care  and  pride  of  its  people,  in  the  levity 
of  a garrison,  that  even  the  immediate  precincts  of  the  tem- 
ple were  not  protected  from  the  passing  jest  or  rude  mirth 
of  the  gay  and  unreflecting,  at  an  hour  when  quiet  was 
wont  to  settle  on  the  whole  province,  as  deep  as  if  Nature 
had  ceased  her  ordinary  functions  to  unite  in  the  worship  of 
man.  Lionel  observed  the  change  with  mortification ; nor 
did  it  escape  his  uneasy  glances,  that  his  two  female  com- 
panions concealed  their  faces  in  their  muffs,  as  if  to  exclude 
a view  that  brought  still  more  painful  recollections  to  minds 
early  trained  in  the  reflecting  habits  of  the  country. 

When  the  sleigh  drew  up  before  the  edifice,  a dozen  hands 
were  extended  to  assist  the  ladies  in  their  short  but  difficult 
passage  into  the  heavy  portico.  Agnes  coldly  bowed  her 
acknowledgments,  observing,  with  an  extremely  equivocal 
smile,  to  one  of  the  most  assiduous  of  the  young  men, — 

“We,  who  are  accustomed  to  the  climate,  find  no  diffi- 

16 


Lionel  ^Lincoln 


2 42 


culty  in  walking  on  ice,  though  to  you  foreigners  it  may 
seem  so  hazardous.  ’ ’ She  then  bowed,  and  walked  gravely 
into  the  bosom  of  the  church,  without  deigning  to  bestow 
another  glance  to  her  right  hand  or  her  left. 

The  manner  of  Cecil,  though  more  chastened  and  femi- 
nine, and  consequently  more  impressive,  was  equally  re- 
served. Like  her  cousin,  she  proceeded  directly  to  her 
pew,  repulsing  the  attempts  of  those  who  wished  to  detain 
her  a moment  in  idle  discourse,  by  a lady-like  propriety 
that  checked  the  advance  of  all  who  approached  her.  In 
consequence  of  the  rapid  movement  of  their  companions, 
Lionel  and  Polwarth  were  left  among  the  crowd  of  officers 
who  thronged  the  entrance  of  the  church.  The  former 
moved  up  within  the  colonnade,  and  passed  from  group  to 
group,  answering  and  making  the  customary  inquiries  of 
men  engaged  in  the  business  of  war.  Here,  three  or  four 
veterans  were  clustered  about  one  of  those  heavy  columns, 
that  were  arranged  in  formidable  show  on  three  faces  of  the 
building,  discussing,  with  becoming  gravity,  the  political 
signs  of  the  times,  or  the  military  condition  of  their  re- 
spective corps.  There,  three  or  four  unfledged  boys, 
tricked  in  all  the  vain  emblems  of  their  profession,  im- 
peded the  entrance  of  the  few  women  who  appeared,  under 
the  pretence  of  admiration  for  the  sex,  while  they  secretly 
dwelt  on  the  glitter  of  their  own  ornaments.  Scattered 
along  the  whole  extent  of  the  entrance  were  other  little 
knots  ; some  listening  to  the  idle  tale  of  a professed  jester, 
some  abusing  the  land  in  which  it  was  their  fate  to  serve, 
and  others  recounting  the  marvels  they  had  witnessed  in 
distant  climes,  and  in  scenes  of  peril  which  beggared  their 
utmost  powers  of  description. 

Among  such  a collection  it  was  not  difficult,  however,  to 
find  a few  whose  views  were  more  elevated,  and  whose  de- 
portment might  be  termed  less  offensive,  either  to  breeding 
or  principles.  With  one  of  the  gentlemen  of  the  latter 
class  Lionel  was  held  for  some  time  in  discourse,  in  a dis- 
tant part  of  the  portico.  At  length  the  sounds  of  the  organ 
were  heard  issuing  from  the  church,  and  the  gay  parties 
began  to  separate,  like  men  suddenly  reminded  why  they 


Xionel  Xincoln 


243 


were  collected  in  that  unusual  place.  The  companion  of 
Major  Lincoln  had  left  him,  and  he  was  himself  following 
along  the  colonnade,  which  was  now  but  thinly  peopled, 
when  his  ear  was  saluted  by  a low  voice,  singing  in  a sort 
of  nasal  chant  at  his  very  elbow, — 

“Woe  unto  you,  Pharisees!  for  ye  love  the  uppermost 
seats  in  the  synagogues,  and  greetings  in  the  market  ! ’ ’ 
Though  Lionel  had  not  heard  the  voice  since  the  echoing 
cry  had  issued  out  of  the  fatal  redoubt,  he  knew  its  first 
tones  on  the  instant.  Turning  at  this  singular  denuncia- 
tion, he  beheld  Job  Pray,  erect  and  immovable  as  a statue, 
in  one  of  the  niches  in  front  of  the  building,  whence  he 
gave  forth  his  warning  voice,  like  some  oracle  speaking  to 
its  devotees. 

‘ ‘ Fellow,  will  no  peril  teach  you  wisdom  ? 5 ’ demanded  Lio- 
nel ; “ how  dare  you  brave  our  resentment  so  wantonly  ? ’ 5 
But  his  questions  were  unheeded.  The  young  man, 
whose  features  looked  pale  and  emaciated,  as  if  he  had 
endured  recent  bodily  disease,  whose  eye  was  glazed  and 
vacant,  and  whose  whole  appearance  was  more  squalid  and 
miserable  than  usual,  appeared  perfectly  indifferent  to  all 
around  him.  Without  even  altering  the  riveted  gaze  of  his 
unmeaning  eye,  he  continued, — 

“Woe  unto  you  ! for  ye  neither  go  in  yourselves,  neither 
suffer  ye  them  that  are  entering  to  go  in  ! ’ ’ 

“ Art  deaf,  fool  ? ” demanded  Lionel. 

In  an  instant  the  eye  of  the  other  was  turned  on  his  in- 
terrogator, and  Major  Lincoln  felt  a thrill  pass  through  him, 
when  he  met  the  wild  gleam  of  intelligence  that  lighted  the 
countenance  of  the  changeling,  as  he  continued,  in  the  same 
ominous  tones, — 

“Whosoever  shall  say  to  his  brother,  Raca,  shall  be  in 
danger  of  the  council ; but  whosoever  shall  say,  Thou  fool, 
is  in  danger  of  hell  fire.” 

For  a moment  Lionel  stood  as  if  spell-bound  by  the 
manner  of  Job,  while  he  uttered  this  dreadful  anathema. 
But  the  instant  the  secret  influence  ceased,  he  tapped  the 
lad  lightly  with  his  cane,  and  bid  him  descend  from  the 
niche. 


244 


Xfonel  Xfncoln 


“Job’s  a prophet,”  returned  the  other,  dishonoring  his 
declaration  at  the  same  time,  by  losing  the  singular  air  of 
momentary  intelligence,  in  his  usual  appearance  of  mental 
imbecility,  “it’s  wicked  to  strike  a prophet.  The  Jews 
stoned  the  prophets,  and  beat  them  too.” 

‘ ‘ Do  then  as  I bid  you  ; would  you  stay  here  to  be  beaten 
by  the  soldiers  ? Go  now,  away  ; after  service  come  to  me, 
and  I will  furnish  you  with  a better  coat  than  the  garment 
you  wear.” 

“ Did  you  never  read  the  good  book,”  said  Job,  “ where 
it  tells  how  you  mustn’t  take  heed  for  food  nor  raiment? 
Nab  says  when  Job  dies  he  ’ll  go  to  heaven,  for  he  gets 
nothing  to  wear  and  but  little  to  eat.  Kings  wear  their 
di’mond  crowns  and  golden  flauntiness;  and  kings  always 
go  to  the  dark  place.” 

The  lad  suddenly  ceased,  and  crouching  into  the  very 
bottom  of  his  niche,  he  began  to  play  with  his  fingers,  like 
an  infant  amused  with  the  power  of  exercising  its  own 
members.  At  the  same  moment  Lionel  turned  from  him, 
attracted  by  the  rattling  of  side-arms,  and  the  tread  of  many 
feet  behind  him.  A large  party  of  officers,  belonging  to  the 
staff*  of  the  army,  had  paused  to  listen  to  what  was  passing. 
Amongst  them  Lionel  recognized,  at  the  first  glance,  two  of 
the  chieftains,  who,  in  a little  advance  of  their  attendants, 
were  keenly  eying  the  singular  being  that'  was  squatted  in 
the  niche.  Notwithstanding  his  surprise,  Major  Lincoln 
detected  the  scowl  that  impended  over  the  dark  brow  of  the 
commander-in-chief,  while  he  bowed  low,  in  deference  to  his 
rank. 

‘ 4 Who  is  this  fellow,  that  dare  condemn  the  mighty  of 
the  earth  to  such  sweeping  perdition?”  demanded  Howe  ; 
‘ ‘ his  own  sovereign  amongst  the  number  ? ’ ’ 

“’Tis  an  unfortunate  being,  wanting  in  intellect,  with 
whom  accident  has  made  me  acquainted,”  returned  Major 
Lincoln  ; ‘ 4 who  hardly  knows  what  he  utters,  and  least  of 
all  in  whose  presence  he  has  been  speaking.  ’ ’ 

“ It  is  to  such  idle  opinions,  which  are  conceived  by  the 
designing,  and  circulated  by  the  ignorant,  that  we  may 
ascribe  the  wavering  allegiance  of  the  colonies,”  said  the 


Xlonel  ^Lincoln 


245 


British  general.  “I  hope  you  can  answer  for  the  loyalty 
of  your  singular  acquaintance,  Major  Lincoln?  ” 

Lionel  was  about  to  reply,  with  some  little  spirit,  when 
the  companion  of  the  frowning  chief  suddenly  exclaimed, — ' 
‘ ‘ By  the  feats  of  the  feathered  Hermes,  but  this  is  the 
identical  Merry-Andrew  who  took  the  flying  leap  from 
Copp’s,  of  which  I have  already  spoken  to  you.  Am  I in 
error,  Lincoln  ? Is  not  this  the  shouting  philosopher,  whose 
feelings  were  so  elevated  on  the  day  of  Breed’s,  that  he 
could  not  refrain  from  flying,  but  who,  less  fortunate  than 
Icarus,  made  his  descent  on  terra  firma  ? ’ * 

“I  believe  your  memory  is  faithful,  sir,”  said  Lionel, 
answering  the  smile  of  the  other  ; “ the  lad  is  often  brought 
to  trouble  by  his  simplicity. ’ 9 

Burgoyne  gave  a gentle  impulse  to  the  arm  he  held,  as 
if  he  thought  the  wretched  being  before  them  unworthy  of 
further  consideration  ; though  secretly  with  a view  to  pre- 
vent an  impolitic  exhibition  of  the  well-known  propensity 
of  his  senior  to  push  his  notions  of  military  ascendency  to 
the  extreme.  Perceiving  by  the  still  darkening  look  of  the 
other  that  he  hesitated,  his  ready  lieutenant  observed, — 

“ Poor  fellow  ! his  treason  was  doubly  punished,  by  a 
flight  of  some  fifty  feet  down  the  declivity  of  Copp’s,  and 
the  mortification  of  witnessing  the  glorious  triumph  of  his 
majesty’s  troops.  To  such  a wretch  we  may  well  afford 
forgiveness.” 

Howe  insensibly  yielded  to  the  continued  pressure  of  the 
other,  and  his  hard  features  even  relaxed  into  a scowling 
smile,  as  he  said,  while  turning  away, — 

“Look  to  your  acquaintance,  Major  Lincoln,  or,  bad  as 
his  present  condition  seems,  he  may  make  it  worse.  Such 
language  cannot  be  tolerated  in  a place  besieged.  That  is 
the  word,  I believe  ; the  rebels  call  their  mob  a besieging 
army,  do  they  not  ? ” 

‘ ‘ They  do  gather  round  our  winter  quarters,  and  claim 
some  such  distinction — ” 

“ It  must  be  acknowledged  they  did  well  on  Breed’s  too  ! 
The  shabby  rascals  fought  like  true  men.” 

“Desperately,  and  with  some  discretion,”  answered  Bur- 


2 46 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


goyne ; “ but  it  was  their  fortune  to  meet  those  who  fought 
better,  and  with  greater  skill.  Shall  we  enter  ? ” 

The  frown  was  now  entirely  chased  from  the  brow  of  the 
chief,  who  said  complacently, — 

‘ ‘ Come,  gentlemen,  we  are  tardy  ; unless  more  indus- 
trious, we  shall  not  be  in  season  to  pray  for  the  king,  much 
less  ourselves.’ ’ 

The  whole  party  advanced  a step,  when  a bustle  in  the 
rear  announced  the  approach  of  another  officer  of  high 
rank,  and  the  second  in  command  entered  into  the  colon- 
nade, followed  also  by  the  gentlemen  of  his  family.  The 
instant  he  appeared,  the  self-contented  look  vanished  from 
the  features  of  Howe,  who  returned  his  salute  with  cold 
civility,  and  immediately  entered  the  church.  The  quick- 
witted Burgoyne  again  interposed,  and  as  he  made  way  in 
his  turn,  he  found  means  to  whisper  into  the  ear  of  Clinton 
some  well-imagined  allusion  to  the  events  of  that  very  field, 
which  had  given  birth  to  the  heart-burnings  between  his 
brother  generals,  and  had  caused  the  feelings  of  Howe  to 
be  estranged  from  the  man  to  whose  assistance  he  owed  so 
much.  Clinton  yielded  to  the  subtle  influence  of  the  flat- 
tery, and  followed  his  commander  into  the  house  of  God, 
with  a bland  contentment  that  he  probably  mistook  for  a 
feeling  much  better  suited  to  the  place  and  the  occasion. 
As  the  whole  group  of  spectators,  consisting  of  aids,  secre- 
taries, and  idlers,  without,  immediately  imitated  the  ex- 
ample of  the  general,  Lionel  found  himself  alone  with  the 
changeling. 

From  the  moment  that  Job  discovered  the  vicinity  of 
the  English  leader,  to  that  of  his  disappearance,  the  lad 
remained  literally  immovable.  His  eye  was  fastened  on 
vacancy,  his  jaw  had  fallen  in  a manner  to  give  a look  of 
utter  mental  alienation  to  his  countenance  ; and,  in  short, 
he  exhibited  the  degraded  lineaments  and  figure  of  a man, 
without  his  animation  or  intelligence.  But  as  the  last 
footsteps  of  the  retiring  party  became  inaudible,  the  fear, 
which  had  put  to  flight  the  feeble  intellects  of  the  simple- 
ton, slowly  left  him,  and  raising  his  face,  he  said,  in  a low, 
growling  voice, — 


Xionel  Xincoln 


247 


“Let  him  go  out  to  Prospect ; the  people  will  teach  him 
the  law  ! ’ ’ 

“ Perverse  and  obstinate  simpleton  ! ” cried  Lionel,  drag- 
ging him,  without  further  ceremony,  from  the  niche  ; “will 
you  persevere  in  that  foolish  cry  until  you  are  whipped  from 
regiment  to  regiment  for  your  pains  ! ’ ’ 

“You  promised  Job  the  grannies  should  n’t  beat  him  any 
more,  and  Job  promised  to  run  your  arr’nds.” 

“Ay  ! but  unless  you  learn  to  keep  silence,  boy,  I shall 
forget  my  promise,  and  give  you  up  to  the  anger  of  all  the 
grannies  in  town.” 

“Well,”  said  Job,  brightening  in  his  look,  like  a fool  in 
his  exultation,  “they  are  half  of  them  dead,  at  any  rate; 
Job  heard  the  biggest  man  among  ’em  roar  like  a ravenous 
lion,  ‘ Hurrah  for  the  Royal  Irish,’  but  he  never  spoke  ag’in  ; 
though  there  wasn’t  any  better  rest  for  Job’s  gun  than  a 
dead  man’s  shoulder  ! ” 

“Wretch  ! ” cried  Lionel,  recoiling  from  him  in  horror, 
“are  your  hands  then  stained  with  the  blood  of  M’Fuse?  ” 
“Job  did  n’t  touch  him  with  his  hands,”  returned  the  un- 
disturbed simpleton  ; ‘ ‘ for  he  died  like  a dog,  where  he  fell  ? ’ ’ 
Lionel  stood  a moment  in  utter  confusion  of  thought ; 
but  hearing  the  infallible  evidence  of  the  near  approach  of 
Polwarth  in  his  tread,  he  said,  in  a hurried  manner,  and  in 
a voice  half  choked  by  his  emotions, — 

“ Go,  fellow,  go  to  Mrs.  Lechmere’s,  as  I bid  you  ; tell — 
tell  Meriton  to  look  to  my  fire.” 

The  lad  made  a motion  towards  obeying,  but  checking 
himself,  he  looked  up  into  the  face  of  the  other  with  a pit- 
eous and  suffering  look,  and  said, — 

“See,  Job’s  numb  with  cold!  Nab  and  Job  can’t  get 
wood  now ; the  king  keeps  men  to  fight  for  it.  Let  Job 
warm  his  flesh  a little  ; his  body  is  cold  as  the  dead  ! ’ ’ 
Touched  to  the  heart  by  the  request,  and  the  helpless 
aspect  of  the  lad,  Lionel  made  a silent  signal  of  assent,  and 
turned  quickly  to  meet  his  friend.  It  was  not  necessary 
for  Polwarth  to  speak,  in  order  to  apprise  Major  Lincoln 
that  he  had  overheard  part  of  the  dialogue  between  him 
and  Job.  His  countenance  and  attitude  sufficiently  be- 


248 


Xlortel  Xtrtcolrt 


trayed  his  knowledge,  as  well  as  the  effect  it  had  produced 
on  his  feelings.  He  kept  his  eyes  on  the  form  of  the  sim- 
pleton, as  the  lad  shuffled  his  way  along  the  icy  street,  with 
an  expression  that  could  not  easily  be  mistaken. 

4 'Did  I not  hear  the  name  of  poor  Dennis?  ” at  length 
he  asked. 

“ ’T  was  some  of  the  idle  boasting  of  the  fool.  But  why 
are  you  not  in  the  pew  ? ’ ’ 

"The  fellow  is  a protige  of  yours,  Major  Lincoln;  but 
you  may  carry  forbearance  too  far,”  returned  Polwarth, 
gravely.  “ I come  for  you,  at  the  request  of  a pair  of  beau- 
tiful blue  eyes,  that  have  inquired  of  each  one  that  has 
entered  the  church,  this  half  hour,  where  and  why  Major 
Lincoln  has  tarried.” 

Lionel  bowed  his  thanks,  and  affected  to  laugh  at  the 
humor  of  his  friend,  while  they  proceeded  together  to  the 
pew  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  without  further  delay. 

The  painful  reflections  excited  by  this  interview  with 
Job,  gradually  vanished  from  the  mind  of  Lionel,  as  he 
yielded  to  the  influence  of  the  solemn  service  of  the  church. 
He  heard  the  difficult  and  suppressed  breathing  of  the  fair 
being  who  kneeled  by  his  side,  while  the  minister  read  those 
thanksgivings  which  personally  concerned  himself,  and  no 
little  of  earthly  gratitude  mingled  with  the  loftier  aspirations 
of  the  youth,  as  he  listened.  He  caught  the  timid  glance 
of  the  soft  eye  from  behind  the  folds  of  Cecil's  veil,  as  they 
rose,  and  he  took  his  seat  as  happy  as  an  ardent  young 
man  might  well  be  fancied,  under  the  consciousness  of  pos- 
sessing the  best  affections  of  a female  so  youthful,  so  lovely, 
and  so  pure. 

Perhaps  the  service  was  not  altogether  so  consoling  to 
the  feelings  of  Polwarth.  As  he  recovered  his  solitary 
foot  again,  with  some  little  difficulty,  he  cast  a very  equivo- 
cal glance  at  his  dismembered  person,  hemmed  aloud,  and 
finished  with  a rattling  of  his  wooden  leg  about  the  pew, 
that  attracted  the  eyes  of  the  whole  congregation,  as  if  he 
intended  the  ears  of  all  present  should  bear  testimony  in 
whose  behalf  their  owners  had  uttered  their  extraordinary 
thanksgivings. 


Xfonel  Xincolit 


249 


The  officiating  minister  was  far  too  discreet  to  vex  the 
attention  of  his  superiors  with  any  prolix  and  unwelcome 
exhibitions  of  the  Christian’s  duty.  The  impressive  deliv- 
ery of  his  text  required  one  minute.  Four  were  consumed 
in  the  exordium.  The  argument  was  ingeniously  condensed 
into  ten  more  ; and  the  peroration  of  his  essay  was  happily 
concluded  in  four  minutes  and  a half ; leaving  him  the  sat- 
isfaction of  knowing,  as  he  was  assured  by  fifty  watches, 
and  twice  that  number  of  contented  faces,  that  he  had  ac- 
complished his  task  by  half  a minute  within  the  orthodox 
period. 

For  this  exactitude  he  doubtless  had  his  reward.  Among 
other  testimonials  in  his  favor,  when  Polwarth  shook  his 
hand  to  thank  him  for  his  kind  offices  in  his  own  behalf,  he 
found  room  for  a high  compliment  to  the  discourse,  conclud- 
ing by  assuring  the  flattered  divine,  “ that,  in  addition  to  its 
other  great  merits,  it  was  done  in  beautiful  time  ! ” 


CHAPTER  XX. 

<r  Away  ; let  naught  to  love  displeasing, 

My  Winifreda,  move  your  care  : 

Let  naught  delay  the  heavenly  blessing, 

Nor  squeamish  pride,  nor  gloomy  fear.” 

Anonymous . 

IT  was  perhaps  fortunate  for  the  tranquillity  of  all  con- 
cerned, that,  during  this  period  of  their  opening  confi- 
dence, the  person  of  Mrs.  Eechmere  came  not  between 
the  bright  image  of  purity  and  happiness  that  Cecil 
presented  in  each  lineament  and  action,  and  the  eyes  of  her 
lover.  The  singular  and  somewhat  contradictory  interests 
that  lady  had  so  often  betrayed  in  the  movements  of  her 
young  kinsman,  were  no  longer  visible  to  awaken  his  slum- 
bering suspicions.  Even  those  inexplicable  scenes,  in  which 
his  aunt  had  so  strangely  been  an  actor,  were  forgotten  in 
the  engrossing  feelings  of  the  hour  ; or,  if  remembered  at  all, 
were  only  suffered  to  dim  the  pleasing  pictures  of  his  imagi- 
nation, as  an  airy  cloud  throws  its  passing  shadows  across 
some  cheerful  and  lovely  landscape.  In  addition  to  those 
very  natural  auxiliaries,  love  and  hope,  the  cause  of  Mrs. 
Lechmere  had  found  a very  powerful  assistant,  in  the 
bosom  of  Lionel,  through  an  accident  which  had  confined 
her,  for  a long  period,  not  only  to  her  apartment,  but  to  her 
bed. 

On  that  day,  when  the  critical  operation  was  performed 
on  the  person  of  Major  Lincoln,  his  aunt  was  known  to 
have  awaited  the  result  with  intense  anxiety.  As  soon  as 
the  favorable  termination  was  reported  to  her,  she  hastened 
towards  his  room  with  an  unguarded  eagerness,  which,  added 
to  the  general  infirmities  of  her  years,  had  nearly  cost  the 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


251 


price  of  her  life.  Her  foot  became  entangled  in  her  train, 
in  ascending  the  stairs,  but  disregarding  the  warning  cry  of 
Agnes  Danforth,  with  that  sort  of  reckless  vehemence  that 
sometimes  broke  through  the  formal  decorum  of  her  man- 
ners, she  sustained,  in  consequence,  a fall  that  might  well 
have  proved  fatal  to  a much  younger  woman.  The  injury 
she  received  was  severe  and  internal  ; and  the  inflammation, 
though  not  high,  was  sufficiently  protracted  to  arouse  the 
apprehension  of  her  attendants.  The  symptoms  were,  how- 
ever, now  abating,  and  her  recovery  no  longer  a matter  of 
question. 

As  Tionel  heard  this  from  the  lips  of  Cecil,  the  reader 
will  not  imagine  the  effect  produced  by  the  interest  his  aunt 
took  in  his  welfare  was  at  all  lessened  by  the  source  whence 
he  derived  his  knowledge.  Notwithstanding  Cecil  dwelt  on 
such  a particular  evidence  of  Mrs.  Techmere’s  attachment 
to  her  nephew  with  much  earnestness,  it  had  not  escaped 
Major  Iyincoln  that  her  name  was  but  seldom  introduced  in 
their  frequent  conversations,  and  never,  on  the  part  of  his 
companion,  without  a guarded  delicacy  that  appeared  sen- 
sitive in  the  extreme.  As  their  confidence,  however,  in- 
creased with  their  hourly  communications,  he  began  gently 
to  lift  the  veil  which  female  reserve  had  drawn  before  her 
inmost  feelings,  and  to  read  a heart  whose  purity  and  truth 
would  have  repaid  a more  difficult  investigation. 

When  the  party  returned  from  the  church,  Cecil  and 
Agnes  immediately  hastened  to  the  apartment  of  the  invalid, 
leaving  Tionel  in  possession  of  the  little  wainscoted  parlor 
by  himself ; Polwarth  having  proceeded  to  his  own  quarters, 
with  the  assistance  of  the  hunter.  The  young  man  passed 
a few  minutes  in  pacing  the  room,  musing  deeply  on  the 
scene  he  had  witnessed  before  the  church  ; now  and  then 
casting  a vacant  look  on  the  fanciful  ornaments  of  the  walls, 
among  which  the  armorial  bearings  of  his  own  name  were 
so  frequent,  and  in  such  honorable  situations.  At  length 
he  heard  that  light  footstep  approach,  whose  sound  had  now 
become  too  well  known  to  be  mistaken,  and  in  another 
instant  he  was  joined  by  Miss  Dynevor. 

“Mrs.  Techmere,”  he  said,  leading  her  to  a settee,  and 


252 


Xlortel  Xtncoln 


placing  himself  by  her  side, — “you  found  her  better,  I 
trust  ? ” 

“So  well,  that  she  intends  adventuring,  this  morning,  an 
interview  with  your  own  formidable  self.  Indeed,  Lionel, 
you  have  every  reason  to  be  grateful  for  the  deep  interest 
my  grandmother  takes  in  your  welfare.  Ill  -as  she  has 
been,  her  inquiries  in  your  behalf  were  ceaseless  ; and  I 
have  known  her  refuse  to  answer  any  questions  about  her 
own  critical  condition,  until  her  physician  had  relieved  her 
anxiety  concerning  yours.  ’ 5 

As  Cecil  spoke,  the  tears  rushed  into  her  eyes,  and  her 
bloom  deepened  with  the  strength  of  her  feelings. 

“It  is  to  you,  then,  that  much  of  my  gratitude  is  due,” 
returned  Iyionel ; “for,  by  permitting  me  to  blend  my  lot 
with  yours,  I find  new  value  in  her  eyes.  Have  you  ac- 
quainted Mrs.  Iyechmere  with  the  full  extent  of  my  presump- 
tion? She  knows  of  our  engagement?  ” 

“ Could  I do  otherwise?  While  your  life  was  in  peril, 
I confined  the  knowledge  of  my  interest  in  your  situation 
to  my  own  breast ; but  when  we  were  flattered  with  the 
hopes  of  a recovery,  I placed  your  letter  in  the  hands  of 
my  natural  adviser,  and  have  the  consolation  of  knowing 
that  she  approves  of  my — what  shall  I call  it,  Iyionel  ? — 
would  not  folly  be  the  better  word  ? ’ ’ 

“ Call  it  what  you  will,  so  you  do  not  disavow  it.  I have 
hitherto  forborne  inquiring  into  the  views  of  Mrs.  L,ech- 
mere,  in  tenderness  to  her  situation  ; but  I may  flatter  my- 
self, Cecil,  that  she  will  not  reject  me  ? ” 

For  a single  instant  the  blood  rushed  tumultuously  over 
the  fine  countenance  of  Miss  Dynevor,  suffusing  even  her 
temples  and  forehead  with  its  healthful  bloom  ; but,  as  she 
cast  a reproachful  glance  at  her  lover,  it  deserted  even  her 
cheeks,  while  she  answered  calmly,  though  with  a slight 
exhibition  of  displeasure  in  her  air, — 

“ It  may  have  been  the  misfortune  of  my  grandmother 
to  view  the  head  of  her  own  family  with  too  partial  eyes ; 
but,  if  it  be  so,  her  reward  should  not  be  distrust.  The 
weakness  is,  I dare  say,  very  natural,  though  not  less  a 
weakness.” 


%ionc l Xfncoltt 


2S3 


For  the  first  time  Lionel  fully  comprehended  the  cause 
of  that  variable  manner,  with  which  Cecil  had  received  his 
attentions,  until  interest  in  his  person  had  stilled  her  sensi- 
tive feelings.  Without,  however,  betraying  the  least  con- 
sciousness of  his  intelligence,  he  answered, — 

“ Gratitude  does  not  deserve  so  forbidding  a name  as  dis- 
trust ; nor  will  vanity  permit  me  to  call  partiality  in  my 
favor  a weakness.’ ’ 

“ The  word  is  a good  and  a safe  term,  as  applied  to  poor 
human  nature,”  said  Cecil,  smiling  once  more  with  all  her 
native  sweetness,  ‘ ‘ and  you  may  possibly  overlook  it,  when 
you  recollect  that  our  foibles  are  sometimes  hereditary.” 

“ I pardon  your  unkind  suspicion  for  that  gentle  ac- 
knowledgment. But  I may  now,  without  hesitation,  apply 
to  your  grandmother  for  her  consent  to  our  immediate 
union  ? ’ ’ 

“ You  would  not  have  your  epithalamium  sung,  when,  at 
the  next  moment,  you  may  be  required  to  listen  to  the  dirge 
of  some  friend  ! ” 

“ The  very  reason  you  urge  against  our  marriage,  induces 
me  to  press  it,  Cecil.  As  the  season  advances,  this  play  of 
war  must  end.  Howe  will  either  break  out  of  his  bounds, 
and  drive  the  Americans  from  the  hills,  or  seek  some  other 
point  for  more  active  warfare.  In  either  case  you  would 
be  left  in  a distracted  and  divided  country,  at  an  age  too 
tender  for  your  own  safety,  rather  the  guardian  than  the 
ward  of  your  helpless  parent.  Surely,  Cecil,  you  would  not 
hesitate  to  accept  of  my  protection  at  such  a crisis,  I had 
almost  dared  to  say,  in  tenderness  to  yourself,  as  well  as  to 
my  feelings.” 

“ Say  on,”  she  answered  ; “I  admire  your  ingenuity,  if 
not  your  argument.  In  the  first  place,  however,  I do  not 
believe  your  general  can  drive  the  Americans  from  their 
post  so  easily  ; for,  by  a very  simple  process  in  figures,  that 
even  I understand,  you  may  find,  that  if  one  hill  costs  so 
many  hundred  men,  that  the  purchase  of  the  whole  would  be 
too  dear.  Nay,  Lionel,  do  not  look  so  grave,  I implore  you  ! 
Surely,  surely,  you  do  not  think  I would  speak  idly  of  a bat- 
tle that  had  nearly  cost  your  life,  and — and — my  happiness.” 


254 


%\oncl  ^Lincoln 


“Say  on,”  said  Lionel,  instantly  dismissing  the  momen- 
tary cloud  from  his  brow,  and  smiling  fondly  in  her  anxious 
face  ; “ I admire  your  casuistry,  and  worship  your  feeling ; 
but  can  also  deny  your  argument.’  ’ 

Reassured  by  his  voice  and  manner,  after  a moment  of 
extreme  agitation,  she  continued,  in  the  same  playful  tones 
as  before, — 

“ But  we  will  suppose  all  the  hills  won,  and  the  American 
chief,  Washington,  who,  though  nothing  but  a rebel,  is  a 
very  respectable  one,  driven  into  the  country  with  his  army 
at  his  heels  ; I trust  it  is  to  be  done  without  the  assistance 
of  the  women  ! Or,  should  Howe  remove  his  forces,  as  you 
intimate,  will  he  not  leave  the  town  behind  him?  In  either 
case,  I should  remain  quietly  where  I am  ; safe  in  a British 
garrison,  or  safer  among  my  countrymen.  ” 

“ Cecil,  you  are  alike  ignorant  of  the  dangers  and  of  the 
rude  lawlessness  of  war.  Though  Howe  should  abandon 
the  place,  ’t  would  be  only  for  a time  ; believe  me,  the  minis- 
try will  never  yield  the  possession  of  a town  like  this,  which 
has  so  long  dared  their  power,  to  men  in  arms  against  their 
lawful  prince.’  ’ 

“ You  have  strangely  forgotten  the  last  six  months,  Li- 
onel, or  you  would  not  accuse  me  of  ignorance  of  the  misery 
that  war  can  inflict.” 

‘ ‘ A thousand  thanks  for  the  kind  admission,  dearest  Cecil, 
as  well  as  for  the  hint,”  said  the  young  man,  shifting  the 
ground  of  his  argument  with  the  consistency,  as  well  as  the 
readiness  of  a lover  ; ‘ ‘ you  have  owned  your  sentiments  to 
me,  and  would  not  refuse  to  avow  them  again  ? ’ ’ 

“ Not  to  one  whose  self-esteem  will  induce  him  to  forget 
the  weakness  ; but,  perhaps,  I might  hesitate  to  do  such  a 
silly  thing  before  the  world.” 

“ I will  then  put  it  to  your  heart,”  he  continued,  without 
regarding  the  smiling  coquetry  she  had  affected.  ‘ £ Believ- 
ing the  best,  you  will  admit  that  another  battle  would  be  no 
strange  occurrence  ? ’ ’ 

She  raised  her  anxious  looks  to  his  face,  but  remained  silent. 

“We  both  know,  at  least  I know,  from  sad  experience, 
that  I am  far  from  being  invulnerable.  Now  answer  me, 


3Ltonel  ^Lincoln 


255 


Cecil ; not  as  a female,  struggling  to  support  the  false  pride 
of  her  sex,  but  as  a woman,  generous  and  full  of  heart,  like 
yourself ; were  the  events  of  the  last  six  months  to  recur, 
whether  would  you  live  them  over  affianced  in  secret,  or  as 
an  acknowledged  wife,  who  might  not  blush  to  show  her 
tenderness  to  the  world  ? ” 

It  was  not  until  the  large  drops,  that  glistened  at  his 
words  upon  the  dark  lashes  of  Miss  Dynevor,  were  shaken 
from  the  tremulous  fringes  that  concealed  her  eyes,  that  she 
looked  up,  blushing,  into  his  face,  and  said, — 

“Do  you  not  then  think  that  I endured  enough,  as  one 
who  felt  herself  betrothed ; but  that  closer  ties  were  neces- 
sary to  fill  the  measure  of  my  suffering  ? ’ ’ 

“ I cannot  even  thank  you  as  I would  for  those  flattering 
tears,  until  my  question  is  plainly  answered.’ ’ 

4 ‘ Is  this  altogether  generous,  Lincoln  ? ’ ’ 

“Perhaps  not  in  appearance,  but  sincerely  so  in  truth. 
By  heaven,  Cecil,  I would  shelter  and  protect  you  from  a 
rude  contact  with  the  world,  even  as  I seek  my  own  happi- 
ness ! ’ 9 

Miss  Dynevor  was  not  only  confused,  but  distressed ; she 
however  said,  in  a low  voice, — 

“You  forget,  Major  Lincoln,  that  I have  one  to  consult, 
without  whose  approbation  I can  promise  nothing.” 

“Will  you,  then,  refer  the  question  to  her  wisdom? 
Should  Mrs.  Lechmere  approve  of  our  immediate  union, 
may  I say  to  her  that  you  authorize  me  to  ask  it  ? ’ ’ 

Cecil  said  nothing ; but  smiling  through  her  tears,  she 
permitted  Lionel  to  take  her  hand  in  a manner  that  a much 
less  sanguine  man  would  have  found  no  difficulty  in  con- 
struing into  an  assent. 

“ Come,  then,”  he  cried,  “ let  us  hasten  to  the  apartment 
of  Mrs.  Lechmere  ; did  you  not  say  she  expected  me?  ” She 
suffered  him  to  draw  her  arm  through  his  own,  and  lead  her 
from  the  room.  Notwithstanding  the  buoyant  hopes  with 
which  Lionel  conducted  his  companion  through  the  passages 
of  the  house,  he  did  not  approach  the  chamber  of  Mrs. 
Lechmere  without  some  inward  repugnance.  It  was  not 
possible  to  forget  entirely  all  that  had  so  recently  passed, 


256 


Xionel  Xincoln 


or  to  still,  effectually,  those  dark  suspicions  which  had  been 
once  awakened  within  his  bosom.  His  purpose,  however, 
bore  him  onward,  and  a glance  at  the  trembling  being  who 
now  absolutely  leaned  on  him  for  support,  drove  every  con- 
sideration, in  which  she  did  not  form  a most  prominent 
part,  from  his  mind. 

The  enfeebled  appearance  of  the  invalid,  with  a sudden 
recollection  that  she  had  sustained  so  much,  in  consequence 
of  her  anxiety  in  his  own  behalf,  so  far  aided  the  cause  of 
his  aunt,  that  the  young  man  not  only  met  her  with  cordi- 
ality, but  with  a feeling  akin  to  gratitude. 

The  indisposition  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  had  now  continued 
for  several  weeks,  and  her  features,  aged  and  sunken  as 
they  were,  by  the  general  decay  of  nature,  afforded  strong- 
additional  testimony  of  the  severity  of  her  recent  illness. 
Her  face,  besides  being  paler  and  more  emaciated  than 
usual,  had  caught  that  anxious  expression,  which  great 
and  protracted  bodily  ailing  is  apt  to  leave  on  the  human 
countenance.  Her  brow  was,  however,  smooth  and  satis- 
fied, unless  at  moments,  when  a slight  and  involuntary  play 
of  the  muscles  betrayed  that  fleeting  pains  continued,  at 
short  intervals,  to  remind  her  of  her  illness.  She  received 
her  visitors  with  a smile  that  was  softer  and  more  conciliat- 
ing than  usual,  and  which  the  pallid  and  careworn  appear- 
ance of  her  features  rendered  deeply  impressive. 

“It  is  kind,  cousin  Lionel,”  she  said,  extending  her 
withered  hand  to  her  young  kinsman,  “ in  the  sick  to  come 
thus  to  visit  the  well.  For  after  so  long  apprehending  the 
worst  on  your  account,  I cannot  consent  that  my  trifling 
injury  should  be  mentioned  before  your  more  serious 
wounds.” 

“Would,  madam,  that  you  had  as  happily  recovered 
from  their  effects  as  myself,”  returned  Lionel,  taking  her 
hand,  and  pressing  it  with  great  sincerity.  4 ‘ I shall  never 
forget  that  you  owe  your  illness  to  anxiety  for  me.” 

‘ ‘ Let  it  pass,  sir ; it  is  natural  that  we  should  feel  strongly 
in  behalf  of  those  we  love.  I have  lived  to  see  you  well 
again,  and,  God  willing,  I shall  live  to  see  this  wicked  re- 
bellion crushed.  ’ ’ She  paused  ; and  smiling  for  a moment 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


257 


on  the  young  pair  who  had  approached  her  couch,  she  con- 
tinued, “ Cecil  has  told  me  all,  Major  Lincoln.” 

“ No,  not  all,  dear  madam,”  interrupted  Lionel ; “ I have 
something  yet  to  add  ; and  in  the  commencement,  I will  own 
that  I depend  altogether  on  your  pity  and  judgment  to  sup- 
port my  pretensions.” 

“ Pretensions  is  an  injudicious  word,  cousin  Lionel; 
where  there  is  a perfect  equality  of  birth,  education,  and 
virtues,  and,  I may  say,  considering  the  difference  in  the 
sexes,  of  fortune  too,  it  may  amount  to  claims  ; but  preten- 
sions is  an  expression  too  ambiguous.  Cecil,  my  child,  go 
to  my  library  ; in  the  small,  secret  drawer  of  my  escritoire, 
you  will  find  a paper  bearing  your  name  ; read  it,  my  love, 
and  then  bring  it  hither.” 

She  motioned  to  Lionel  to  be  seated,  and  when  the  door 
had  closed  on  the  retiring  form  of  Cecil  she  resumed  the 
conversation. 

“ As  we  are  about  to  speak  of  business,  the  confused  girl 
may  as  well  be  relieved,  Major  Lincoln.  What  is  this  par- 
ticular favor  that  I shall  be  required  to  yield  ? ’ ’ 

4 ‘Like  any  other  sturdy  mendicant,  who  may  have 
already  partaken  largely  of  your  bounty,  I come  to  beg 
the  immediate  gift  of  the  last  and  greatest  boon  you  can 
bestow.” 

‘ ‘ My  grandchild.  There  is  no  necessity  for  useless  re- 
serves between  us,  cousin  Lionel,  for  you  will  remember  that 
I too  am  a Lincoln.  Let  us  then  speak  freely,  like  two 
friends,  who  have  met  to  determine  on  a matter  equally  near 
to  the  heart  of  each.” 

“ Such  is  my  earnest  wish,  madam.  I have  been  urging 
on  Miss  Dynevor  the  peril  of  the  times,  and  the  critical 
situation  of  the  country  , in  both  of  which  I have  found  the 
strongest  reasons  for  our  immediate  union.” 

“And  Cecil ? — ” 

“ Has  been  like  herself— kind,  but  dutiful.  She  refers  me 
entirely  to  your  decision,  by  which  alone  she  consents  to  be 
guided.” 

Mrs.  Lechmere  made  no  immediate  reply,  but  her  features 
powerfully  betrayed  the  inward  workings  of  her  mind.  It 

*7 


Lionel  Lincoln 


258 


certainly  was  not  displeasure  that  caused  her  to  hesitate,  her 
hollow  eye  lighting  with  a gleam  of  satisfaction  that  could 
not  be  mistaken  ; neither  was  it  uncertainty,  for  her  whole 
countenance  seemed  to  express  rather  the  uncontrollable  agi- 
tation which  might  accompany  the  sudden  accomplishment 
of  long-desired  ends,  than  any  doubt  as  to  their  prudence. 
Gradually  her  agitation  subsided  ; and  as  her  feelings  be- 
came more  natural,  her  hard  eyes  filled  with  tears,  and  when 
she  spoke,  there  was  a softness  mingled  with  the  tremor  of 
her  voice,  that  Lionel  had  never  before  witnessed. 

“She  is  a good  and  dutiful  child,  my  own,  my  obedient 
Cecil  ! She  will  bring  you  no  wealth,  Major  Lincoln,  that 
will  be  esteemed  among  your  hoards,  nor  any  proud  title  to 
add  to  the  lustre  of  your  honorable  name  ; but  she  will  bring 
you  what  is  as  good,  if  not  better — nay,  I am  sure  it  must 
be  better — a pure  and  virtuous  heart,  that  knows  no  guile. 5 ’ 
‘ ‘ A thousand  and  a thousand  times  more  estimable  in  my 
eyes,  my  worthy  aunt ! ” cried  Lionel,  melting  before  the 
touch  of  nature,  which  had  so  effectually  softened  the  harsh 
feelings  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  ; “let  her  come  to  my  arms  penni- 
less, and  without  a name  ; she  will  be  no  less  my  wife— no 
less  her  own  invaluable  self.  ’ ’ 

“ I spoke  only  by  comparison,  Major  Lincoln  ; the  child 
of  Colonel  Dynevor,  and  the  granddaughter  of  the  Lord 
Viscount  Cardonnell,  can  have  no  cause  to  blush  for  her 
lineage  ; neither  will  the  descendant  of  John  Lechmere  be  a 
dowerless  bride.  When  Cecil  shall  become  Lady  Lincoln, 
she  need  never  wish  to  conceal  the  escutcheon  of  her  own 
ancestors  under  the  bloody  hand  of  her  husband’s.” 

“ May  Heaven  long  avert  the  hour  when  either  of  us  may 
be  required  to  use  the  symbol  ! ” exclaimed  Lionel. 

* ‘ Did  I not  understand  aright  ? was  not  your  request  for 
an  instant  marriage  ? ’ ’ 

“ Never  less  in  error,  my  dear  madam  ; but  you  surely  do 
not  forget  that  one  lives  so  mutually  dear  to  us,  who  has 
every  reason  to  hope  for  many  years  of  life  ; and  I trust,  too, 
of  happiness  and  reason.” 

Mrs.  Lechmere  looked  wildly  at  her  nephew,  and  then 
passed  her  hand  slowly  before  her  eyes,  from  whence  she  did 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


259 


not  withdraw  them  until  a universal  shudder  had  shaken  the 
whole  of  her  enfeebled  frame. 

“You  are  right,  my  young  cousin,”  she  said,  smiling 
faintly  ; “I  believe  my  bodily  weakness  has  impaired  my 
memory.  I was  indeed  dreaming  of  days  long  since  past. 
You  stood  before  me  in  the  image  of  your  desolate  father, 
while  Cecil  bore  that  of  her  mother — my  own  long-lost  but 
wilful  Agnes  ! O ! she  was  my  child  ! my  child  ! and  God 
has  forgotten  her  faults  in  mercy  to  a mother’s  prayers.” 
Lionel  recoiled  a step  before  the  wild  energy  of  the  in- 
valid’s manner,  in  speechless  amazement.  A flush  had 
passed  into  her  pallid  cheeks,  and  as  she  concluded,  she 
clasped  her  hands  before  her,  and  sunk  on  the  pillows  which 
supported  her  back.  Large  insulated  tears  fell  from  her  eyes, 
and,  slowly  moving  over  her  wasted  cheeks,  dropped  singly 
upon  the  counterpane.  Lionel  laid  his  hand  upon  the  night- 
bell,  but  an  expressive  gesture  from  his  aunt  prevented  his 
ringing. 

“ I am  well  again,”  she  said  ; “ hand  me  the  restorative 
by  your  side.” 

Mrs.  Lechmere  drank  freely  from  the  glass,  and  in  another 
minute  her  agitation  subsided,  her  features  settling  into  their 
rigid  composure,  and  her  eye  resuming  its  hard  expression, 
as  though  nothing  had  occurred  to  disturb  her  usual  cold 
and  worldly  look. 

“ You  see  how  much  better  youth  can  endure  the  ravages 
of  disease  than  age,  by  my  present  weakness,  Major  Lin' 
coin,”  she  continued  ; “ but  let  us  return  to  other  and  more 
agreeable  subjects — you  have  not  only  my  consent,  but  my 
wish,  that  you  should  wed  my  grandchild.  It  is  a happiness 
that  I have  rather  hoped  for  than  dared  to  expect,  and  I will 
freely  add,  ’t  is  a consummation  of  my  wishes  that  will  render 
the  evening  of  my  days  not  only  happy,  but  blessed.” 

‘ ‘ Then,  dearest  madam,  why  should  it  be  delayed  ? — no 
one  can  say  what  a day  may  bring  forth,  at  such  a time  as 
this,  and  the  moment  of  bustle  and  action  is  not  the  hour  to 
register  the  marriage  vows.” 

After  musing  a moment,  Mrs.  Lechmere  replied, — 

“We  have  a good  and  holy  custom  in  this  religious 


260 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


province,  of  choosing  the  day  which  the  Lord  has  set  apart 
for  his  own  exclusive  worship  as  that  on  which  to  enter 
into  the  honorable  state  of  matrimony.  Choose,  then,  be- 
tween this  or  the  next  Sabbath  for  your  nuptials.” 

Whatever  might  be  the  ardor  of  the  young  man,  he  was 
a little  surprised  at  the  shortness  of  the  former  period ; but 
the  pride  of  his  sex  would  not  admit  of  any  hesitation. 

‘‘Let  it  be  this  day,  if  Miss  Dynevor  can  be  brought 
freely  to  consent.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Here  then  she  comes,  to  tell  you  that,  at  my  request, 
she  does.  Cecil,  my  own  sweet  child,  I have  promised 
Major  Lincoln  that  you  will  become  his  wife  this  day.” 

Miss  Dynevor,  who  had  advanced  into  the  centre  of  the 
room  before  she  heard  the  purport  of  this  speech,  stopped 
short,  and  stood  like  a beautiful  statue,  expressing  astonish- 
ment and  dismay.  Her  color  went  and  came  with  alarming 
quickness,  and  the  paper  fell  from  her  trembling  hand  to 
her  feet,  which  appeared  riveted  to  the  floor. 

“To-day!”  she  repeated,  in  a voice  barely  audible; 
‘ ‘ did  you  say  to-day,  my  grandmother  ? 5 ’ 

“ Even  to-day,  my  child.” 

“Why  this  reluctance,  this  alarm,  Cecil?”  said  Lionel, 
approaching,  and  leading  her  gently  to  a seat.  “You  know 
the  peril  of  the  times — -you  have  condescended  to  own  your 
sentiments — consider  ; the  winter  is  breaking,  and  the  first 
thaw  can  lead  to  events  which  may  entirely  alter  our  situa- 
tion.” 

“All  these  may  have  weight  in  your  eyes,  Major  Lin- 
coln,” interrupted  Mrs.  Lechmere,  in  a voice  whose  marked 
solemnity  drew  the  attention  of  her  hearers  ; ‘ ‘ but  I have 
other  and  deeper  motives.  Have  I not  already  proved  the 
dangers  and  the  evils  of  delay?  Ye  are  young,  and  ye  are 
virtuous  ; why  should  ye  not  be  happy  ? Cecil,  if  you  love 
and  revere  me,  as  I think  you  do,  you  will  become  his  wife 
this  day.” 

“ Let  me  have  time  to  think,  dearest  grandmother.  The 
tie  is  so  new  and  so  solemn  ! Major  Lincoln, — dear  Lionel, 
— you  are  not  wont  to  be  ungenerous ; I throw  myself  on 
your  kindness  ! ” 


Xlonel  Xincolit 


26l 


Lionel  did  not  speak,  and  Mrs.  Lechmere  calmly  an- 
swered,— 

“ ’T  is  not  at  his,  but  my  request,  that  you  will  comply.” 
Miss  Dynevor  rose  from  her  seat  by  the  side  of  Lionel}  - 
with  an  air  of  offended  delicacy,  and  said,  with  a mournful 
smile,  to  her  lover, — 

“ Illness  has  rendered  my  good  mother  timid  and  weak  ; 
will  you  excuse  my  desire  to  be  alone  with  her  ? ’ ' 

“ I leave  you,  Cecil,”  he  said,  “but  if  you  ascribe  my 
silence  to  any  other  motive  than  tenderness  to  your  feelings, 
you  are  unjust  both  to  yourself  and  me.” 

She  expressed  her  gratitude  only  in  her  looks,  and  he 
immediately  withdrew,  to  await  the  result  of  their  conversa- 
tion in  his  own  apartment.  The  half  hour  that  Lionel 
passed  in  his  chamber  seemed  half  a year;  but  at  the 
expiration  of  that  short  period  of  time,  Meriton  came  to 
announce  that  Mrs.  Lechmere  desired  his  presence  again  in 
her  room. 

The  first  glance  of  her  eye  assured  Major  Lincoln  that 
his  cause  had  triumphed.  His  aunt  had  sunk  back  on  her 
pillows,  with  her  countenance  set  in  a calculating  and  rigid 
expression,  which  indicated  a satisfaction  so  selfish  that  it 
almost  induced  the  young  man  to  regret  she  had  not  failed. 
But  when  his  eyes  met  the  tearful  and  timid  glances  of  the 
blushing  Cecil,  he  felt  that,  provided  she  could  be  his  with- 
out violence  to  her  feelings,  he  cared  but  little  at  whose 
instigation  she  had  consented. 

“ If  I am  to  read  my  fate  by  your  goodness,  I know  I 
may  hope,”  he  said,  advancing  to  her  side  ; “ if  in  my  own 
deserts,  I am  left  to  despair.” 

“Perhaps  ’t  was  foolish,  Lincoln,”  she  said,  smiling 
through  her  tears,  and  frankly  placing  her  hand  in  his,  “ to 
hesitate  about  a few  days,  when  I feel  ready  to  devote  my 
life  to  your  happiness.  It  is  the  wish  of  my  grandmother 
that  I place  myself  under  your  protection.” 

‘ ‘ Then  this  evening  unites  us  forever  ? ’ ’ 

“ There  is  no  obligation  on  your  gallantry,  that  it  should 
positively  take  place  this  very  evening,  if  any  or  the  least 
difficulties  present.” 


262 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


“But  none  do,  nor  can,”  interrupted  Lionel.  “ Happily 
the  marriage  forms  of  the  colony  are  simple,  and  we  enjoy 
the  consent  of  all  who  have  any  right  to  interfere.” 

“ Go,  then,  my  children,  and  complete  your  brief  arrange- 
ments,” said  Mrs.  Lechmere  ; “ ’tis  a solemn  knot  that  ye 
tie  ! it  must,  it  will  be  happy  ! ’ ’ 

Lionel  pressed  the  hand  of  his  intended  bride,  and  with- 
drew ; and  Cecil,  throwing  herself  into  the  arms  of  her 
grandmother,  gave  vent  to  her  feelings  in  a burst  of  tears. 
Mrs.  Lechmere  did  not  repulse  her  child ; on  the  contrary, 
she  pressed  her  once  or  twice  to  her  heart  ; but  still  an 
observant  spectator  might  have  seen  that  her  looks  betrayed 
more  of  worldly  pride,  than  of  those  natural  emotions  which 
such  a scene  ought  to  have  excited. 


CHAPTER  XXI. 

“ Come,  friar  Francis,  be  brief ; only  to  the  plain  form  of  marriage.* * 

Much  Ado  About  Nothing . 

MAJOR  LINCOLN  had  justly  said,  the  laws  regu- 
lating marriages  in  the  Massachusetts,  which 
were  adapted  to  the  infant  state  of  the  country, 
threw  but  few  impediments  in  the  way  of  the 
indissoluble  connection.  Cecil  had,  however,  been  educated 
in  the  bosom  of  the  English  Church,  and  she  clung  to  its 
forms  and  ceremonies  with  an  affection  that  may  easily  be 
accounted  for  in  their  solemnity  and  beauty.  Notwith- 
standing the  colonists  often  chose  the  weekly  festival  for 
their  bridals,  the  rage  of  reform  had  excluded  the  altar  from 
most  of  their  temples,  and  it  was  not  usual  with  them  to 
celebrate  their  nuptials  in  the  places  of  public  worship.  But 
there  appeared  so  much  of  unreasonable  haste,  and  so  little 
of  due  preparation,  in  her  own  case,  that  Miss  Dynevor, 
anxious  to  give  all  solemnity  to  an  act,  to  whose  importance 
she  was  sensibly  alive,  expressed  her  desire  to  pronounce  her 
vows  at  that  altar  where  she  had  so  long  been  used  to  wor- 
ship, and  under  that  roof  where  she  had  already,  since  the 
rising  of  the  sun,  poured  out  the  thanksgivings  of  her  pure 
spirit  in  behalf  of  the  man  who  was  so  soon  to  become  her 
husband. 

As  Mrs.  Lechmere  had  declared  that  the  agitation  of  the 
day  and  her  feeble  condition  must  unavoidably  prevent  her 
witnessing  the  ceremony,  there  existed  no  sufficient  reason 
for  not  indulging  the  request  of  her  grandchild,  notwith- 
standing it  was  not  in  strict  accordance  with  the  customs  of 
the  place.  But  being  married  a.t  the  altar,  and  being  mar- 


264 


Xtonel  Xlncoin 


ried  in  public,  were  not  similar  duties  ; and  in  order  to  effect 
the  one  and  avoid  the  other,  it  was  necessary  to  postpone 
the  ceremony  until  a late  hour,  and  to  clothe  the  whole  in  a 
cloak  of  mystery,  that  the  otherwise  unembarrassed  state  of 
the  parties  would  not  have  required. 

Miss  Dynevor  made  no  other  confidant  than  her  cousin. 
Her  feelings  being  altogether  elevated  above  the  ordinarily 
idle  considerations  which  are  induced  by  time  and  prepara- 
tions on  such  an  occasion,  her  brief  arrangements  were 
soon  ended,  and  she  awaited  the  appointed  moment  without 
alarm,  if  not  without  emotion. 

Lionel  had  much  more  to  perform.  He  knew  that  the  least 
intimation  of  such  a scene  would  collect  a curious  and  a dis- 
agreeable crowd  around  and  in  the  church,  and  he  therefore 
determined  that  his  plans  should  be  arranged  in  silence,  and 
managed  secretly.  In  order  to  prevent  a surprise,  Meriton 
was  sent  to  the  clergyman,  requesting  him  to  appoint  an 
hour  in  the  evening  when  he  could  give  an  interview  to 
Major  Lincoln.  He  was  answered  that  at  any  moment  after 
nine  o'clock  Dr.  Liturgy  would  be  released  from  the  duties 
of  the  day,  and  in  readiness  to  receive  him.  There  was  no 
alternative  ; and  ten  was  the  time  mentioned  to  Cecil  when 
she  was  requested  to  meet  him  before  the  altar.  Major 
Lincoln  distrusted  a little  the  discretion  of  Polwarth,  and 
he  contented  himself  with  merely  telling  his  friend  that  he 
was  to  be  married  that  evening,  and  that  he  must  be  careful 
to  repair  to  Tremont  Street  in  order  to  give  away  the  bride, 
appointing  an  hour  sufficiently  early  for  all  the  subsequent 
movements.  His  groom  and  his  valet  had  their  respective 
and  separate  orders,  and  long  before  the  important  moment, 
he  had  everything  arranged,  as  he  believed,  beyond  the 
possibility  of  a disappointment. 

Perhaps  there  was  something  a little  romantic,  if  not  dis- 
eased, in  the  mind  of  Lionel  that  caused  him  to  derive  a 
secret  pleasure  from  the  hidden  movements  he  contemplated. 
He  was  certainly  not  entirely  free  from  a touch  of  that 
melancholy  and  morbid  humor  which  has  been  mentioned 
as  the  characteristic  of  his  race,  nor  did  he  always  feel  the 
less  happy  because  he  w^s  a little  miserable.  However, 


Xlortel  Xincoln 


265 


either  by  his  activity  of  intellect  or  that  excellent  training 
in  life  he  had  undergone,  by  being  required  to  act  early  for 
himself,  he  had  so  far  succeeded  in  quelling  the  evil  spirit 
within  him,  as  to  render  its  influence  quite  imperceptible 
to  others,  and  nearly  so  to  himself.  It  had,  in  fine,  left 
him  what  we  have  endeavored  to  represent  him  in  these 
pages — not  a man  without  faults,  but  certainly  one  of  many 
high  and  generous  virtues. 

As  the  day  drew  to  a close,  the  small  family  party  in 
Tremont  Street  collected,  in  their  usual  manner,  to  partake 
of  the  evening  repast,  which  was  common  throughout  the 
colonies  at  that  period.  Cecil  was  pale,  and  at  times  a slight 
tremor  was  perceptible  in  the  little  hand  which  did  the 
offices  of  the  table ; but  there  was  a forced  calmness  seated 
in  her  humid  eyes  that  betokened  the  resolution  she  had 
summoned  to  her  assistance  in  order  to  comply  with  the 
wishes  of  her  grandmother.  Agnes  Danforth  was  silent 
and  observant,  though  an  occasional  look,  of  more  than 
usual  meaning,  betrayed  what  she  thought  of  the  mystery 
and  suddenness  of  the  approaching  nuptials.  It  would 
seem,  however,  that  the  importance  of  the  step  she  was 
about  to  take  had  served  to  raise  the  bride  above  the  little 
affectations  of  her  sex  ; for  she  spoke  of  the  preparations 
like  one  who  owned  her  interest  in  their  completion,  and 
who  even  dreaded  that  something  might  yet  occur  to  mar 
them. 

“If  I were  superstitious,  and  had  faith  in  omens,  Lin- 
coin,”  she  said,  “the  hour  and  the  weather  might  well 
intimidate  me  from  taking  this  step.  See,  the  wind  already 
blows  across  the  endless  wastes  of  the  ocean,  and  the  snow 
is  driving  through  the  streets  in  whirlwinds  ! ’ ’ 

“ It  is  not  yet  too  late  to  countermand  my  orders,  Cecil,” 
he  said,  regarding  her  anxiously;  “I  have  made  all  my 
movements  so  like  a great  commander,  that  it  is  as  easy  to 
retrograde  as  to  advance.  ’ ’ 

“Would  youthen  retreat  before  one  so  little  formidable 
as  I?  ” she  returned,  smiling. 

“You  surely  understand  me  as  wishing  only  to  change  the 
place  of  our  marriage.  I dread  exposing  you  and  our  kind 


266 


%ioncl  Xfncolrt 


cousin  to  the  tempest,  which,  as  you  say,  after  sweeping 
over  the  ocean  so  long,  appears  rejoiced  to  find  land  on 
which  to  expend  its  fury.” 

“ I have  not  misconstrued  your  meaning,  Lionel,  nor  must 
you  be  mistaken  in  mine.  I will  become  your  wife  to-night, 
and  cheerfully,  too  ; for  what  reason  can  I have  to  doubt  you 
now  more  than  formerly  ? But  my  vows  must  be  offered  at 
the  altar.” 

Agnes,  perceiving  that  her  cousin  spoke  with  a sup- 
pressed emotion  that  made  utterance  difficult,  gayly  inter- 
rupted her, — 

“ And  as  for  the  snow,  you  know  little  of  Boston  girls, 
if  you  think  an  icicle  has  any  terrors  for  them.  I vow, 
Cecil,  I do  think  you  and  I have  been  guilty,  when  chil- 
dren, of  coasting  in  a hand-sled  down  the  side  of  Beacon, 
in  a worse  flurry  than  this.  ’ ’ 

“We  were  guilty  of  many  mad  and  silly  things  at  ten 
that  might  not  grace  twenty,  Agnes.” 

“ Lord,  how  like  a matron  she  speaks  already  ! ” inter- 
rupted the  other,  throwing  up  her  eyes  and  clasping  her 
hands  in  affected  admiration  ; ‘ ‘ nothing  short  of  the  church 
will  satisfy  so  discreet  a dame,  Major  Lincoln  ! so  dismiss 
your  cares  on  her  account,  and  begin  to  enumerate  the 
cloaks  and  overcoats  necessary  to  your  own  preservation.” 

Lionel  made  a lively  reply,  when  a dialogue  of  some 
spirit  ensued  between  him  and  Agnes,  to  which  even  Cecil 
listened  with  a beguiled  ear.  When  the  evening  had 
advanced,  Polwarth  made  his  appearance,  suitably  attired, 
and  with  a face  that  was  sufficiently  knowing  and  important 
for  the  occasion.  The  presence  of  the  captain  reminded 
Lionel  of  the  lateness  of  the  hour,  and  without  delay  he 
hastened  to  communicate  his  plans  to  his  friend. 

At  a few  minutes  before  ten,  Polwarth  was  to  accompany 
the  ladies  in  a covered  sleigh  to  the  chapel,  which  was  not 
a stone’s  throw  from  their  residence,  where  the  bridegroom 
was  to  be  in  readiness  to  receive  them,  with  the  divine. 
Referring  the  captain  to  Meriton  for  further  instructions, 
and  without  waiting  to  hear  the  other  express  his  amaze- 
ment at  the  singularity  of  the  plan,  Major  Lincoln  said  a 


OLtonel  Xlncolit 


267 


few  words  of  tender  encouragement  to  Cecil,  looked  at  his 
watch,  and  throwing  his  cloak  around  him,  took  his  hat, 
and  departed. 

We  shall  leave  Polwarth  endeavoring  to  extract  the 
meaning  of  all  these  mysterious  movements  from  the  wilful 
and  amused  Agnes  (Cecil  having  retired  also),  and  accom- 
pany the  bridegroom  in  his  progress  towards  the  residence 
of  the  divine. 

Major  Iyincoln  found  the  streets  entirely  deserted.  The 
night  was  not  dark,  for  a full  moon  was  wading  among  the 
volumes  of  clouds,  which  drove  before  the  tempest  in  dark 
and  threatening  masses,  that  contrasted  singularly  and  wildly 
to  the  light  covering  of  the  hills  and  buildings  of  the  town. 
Occasionally  the  gusts  of  the  wind  would  lift  eddying 
wreiths  of  fine  snow  from  some  roof,  and  whole  squares 
were  wrapt  in  mist  as  the  frozen  vapor  whistled  by.  At 
times,  the  gale  howled  among  the  chimneys  and  turrets,  in 
a steady,  sullen  roaring ; and  there  were  again  moments 
when  the  element  appeared  hushed,  as  if  its  fury  were  ex- 
pended, and  winter,  having  worked  its  might,  was  yielding 
to  the  steady,  but  insensible  advances  of  spring.  There  was 
something  in  the  season  and  the  hour  peculiarly  in  conso- 
nance with  the  excited  temperament  of  the  young  bride- 
groom. Even  the  solitude  of  the  streets,  and  the  hollow 
rushing  of  the  winds,  the  fleeting  and  dim  light  of  the  moon, 
which  afforded  passing  glimpses  of  surrounding  objects,  and 
then  was  hid  behind  a dark  veil  of  shifting  vapor,  contrib- 
uted to  his  pleasure.  He  made  his  way  through  the  snow 
with  that  species  of  stern  joy,  to  which  all  are  indebted,  at 
times,  for  moments  of  wild  and  pleasing  self-abandonment. 
His  thoughts  vacillated  between  the  purpose  of  the  hour, 
and  the  unlooked-for  coincidence  of  circumstances  that  had 
clothed  it  in  a dress  of  such  romantic  mystery.  Once  or 
twice  a painful  and  dark  thought,  connected  with  the  secret 
of  Mrs.  Eechmere’s  life,  found  its  way  among  his  more 
pleasing  visions,  but  it  was  quickly  chased  from  his  mind  by 
the  image  of  her  who  awaited  his  movements  in  such  confid- 
ing faith,  and  with  such  secure  and  dependent  affection. 

As  the  residence  of  Dr.  Eiturgy  was  on  the  North  End, 


268 


Xionel  Xincoln 


which  was  then  one  of  the  fashionable  quarters  of  the  town, 
the  distance  required  that  Lionel  should  be  diligent,  in  order 
to  be  punctual  to  his  appointment.  Young,  active,  and  full 
of  hope,  he  passed  along  the  unequal  pavements  with  great 
rapidity,  and  had  the  satisfaction  of  perceiving  by  his  watch, 
when  admitted  to  the  presence  of  the  clergyman,  that  his 
speed  had  even  outstripped  the  proverbial  fleetness  of  time 
itself. 

The  reverend  gentleman  was  in  his  study,  consoling  him- 
self for  the  arduous  duties  of  the  day,  with  the  comforts  of 
a large  easy  chair,  a warm  fire,  and  a pitcher  filled  with  a 
mixture  of  cider  and  ginger,  together  with  other  articles 
that  would  have  done  credit  to  the  knowledge  of  Polwarth 
in  spices.  His  full  and  decorous  wig  was  replaced  by  a 
velvet  cap,  his  shoes  were  unbuckled,  and  his  heels  released 
from  confinement.  In  short,  all  his  arrangements  were 
those  of  a man  who,  having  endured  a day  of  labor,  was  re- 
solved to  prove  the  enjoyments  of  an  evening  of  rest.  His 
pipe,  though  filled,  and  on  the  little  table  by  his  side,  was 
not  lighted,  in  compliment  to  the  guest  he  expected  at  that 
hour.  As  he  was  slightly  acquainted  with  Major  Lincoln, 
no  introduction  was  necessary,  and  the  two  gentlemen  were 
soon  seated  ; the  one  endeavoring  to  overcome  the  embar- 
rassment he  felt  on  revealing  his  singular  errand,  and  the 
other  waiting,  in  no  little  curiosity,  to  learn  the  reason  why 
a member  of  Parliament,  and  the  heir  of  ten  thousand  a 
year,  should  come  abroad  on  such  an  unpropitious  night. 

At  length  Lionel  succeeded  in  making  the  astonished 
priest  understand  his  wishes,  and  paused  to  hear  the  expected 
approbation  of  his  proposal. 

Dr.  Titurgy  had  listened  with  the  most  profound  atten- 
tion, as  if  to  catch  some  clue  to  explain  the  mystery  of  the 
extraordinary  proceeding,  and  when  the  young  man  con- 
cluded, he  unconsciously  lighted  his  pipe,  and  began  to  throw 
out  large  clouds  of  smoke,  like  a man  who  felt  there  was  a 
design  to  abridge  his  pleasures,  and  who  was  consequently 
determined  to  make  the  most  of  his  time. 

“ Married  ! To  be  married  in  church  ! and  after  the 
night  lecture  ?”  he  muttered  in  a low  voice  between  his 


Xtonel  Xincoln 


269 


long-drawn  puffs.  “ ’T  is  my  duty,  certainly,  Major  Lincoln, 
to  marry  parishioners — ” 

“ In  the  present  instance,  as  I know  my  request  to  be 
irregular,  sir,”  interrupted  the  impatient  Lionel,  “I  will 
make  it  your  interest  also.”  While  speaking,  he  took  a 
well-filled  purse  from  his  pocket,  and,  with  an  air  of  much 
delicacy,  laid  a small  pile  of  gold  by  the  side  of  the  silver 
spectacle-case  of  the  divine,  as  if  to  show  him  the  difference 
in  the  value  of  the  two  metals. 

Dr.  Liturgy  bowed  his  acknowledgments,  and  insensibly 
changed  the  stream  of  smoke  to  the  opposite  corner  of  his 
mouth,  so  as  to  leave  the  view  of  the  glittering  boon  unob- 
structed. At  the  same  time  he  raised  the  heel  of  one  shoe, 
and  threw  an  anxious  glance  at  the  curtained  window,  to 
inquire  into  the  state  of  the  weather. 

4 4 Could  not  the  ceremony  be  performed  at  the  house  of 
Mrs.  Lechmere  ? ” he  asked  ; ‘ ‘ Miss  Dynevor  is  a tender 
child,  and  I fear  the  cold  air  of  the  chapel  might  do  her  no 
service.” 

“ It  is  her  wish  to  go  to  the  altar,  and  you  are  sensible  it 
is  not  my  part  to  question  her*decision  in  such  a matter. 5 ’ 

“ ’T  is  a pious  inclination  ; though  I trust  she  knows  the 
distinction  between  the  spiritual  and  the  temporal  church. 
The  laws  of  the  colonies  are  too  loose  on  the  subject  of  mar- 
riages, Major  Lincoln  ; culpably  and  dangerously  loose  ! ” 

‘ ‘ But  as  it  is  not  in  our  power  to  alter,  my  good  sir,  you 
will  permit  me  to  profit  by  them,  imperfect  as  they  are  ? ” 
“Undeniably  ; it  is  part  of  my  office  to  christen,  to  marry, 
and  to  bury  ; a duty  which,  I often  say,  covers  the  begin- 
ning, the  middle,  and  the  end  of  existence.  But  permit  me 
to  help  you  to  a little  of  my  beverage,  Major  Lincoln;  we 
call  it  ‘ Samson, 5 in  Boston  ; you  will  find  the  ‘ Danite  ’ a 
warm  companion  for  a February  night  in  this  climate.” 
“The  mixture  is  not  inaptly  named,  sir,”  said  Lionel, 
after  wetting  his  lips,  ‘ ‘ if  strength  be  the  quality  most  con- 
sidered.” 

‘ 4 Ah  ! you  have  him  from  the  lap  of  a Delilah  ; but  it  is 
unbecoming  in  one  of  my  cloth  to  meddle  with  aught  of  the 
harlot.” 


270 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


He  laughed  at  his  own  wit,  and  made  a more  spirituous 
than  spiritual  addition  to  his  glass,  while  he  continued, — 

“ We  divide  it  into  ‘ Samson  with  his  hair  off,’  and  ‘ Sam- 
son with  his  hair  on  * ; and  I believe  myself  the  most 
orthodox  in  preferring  the  man  of  strength  in  his  native  come- 
liness. I pledge  you,  Major  Lincoln  ; may  the  middle  of 
your  days  be  as  happy  as  the  charming  young  lady  you  are 
about  to  espouse  may  well  render  them  ; and  your  end,  sir, 
that  of  a good  churchman,  and  a faithful  subject.” 

Lionel,  who  considered  this  compliment  as  an  indication 
of  his  success,  now  rose,  and  said  a few  words  on  the  sub- 
ject of  their  meeting  in  the  chapel.  The  divine,  who 
manifestly  possessed  no  great  relish  for  the  duty,  made  sun- 
dry slight  objections  to  the  whole  proceeding,  which  were, 
however,  soon  overcome  by  the  arguments  of  the  bridegroom. 
At  length,  every  difficulty  was  happily  adjusted,  save  one, 
and  that  the  epicurean  doctor  stoutly  declared  to  be  a serious 
objection  to  acting  in  the  matter.  The  church  fires  were 
suffered  to  go  down,  and  his  sexton  had  been  taken  from 
the  chapel,  that  very  evening,  with  every  symptom  on  him 
of  the  terrible  pestilence  which  then  raged  in  the  place,  add- 
ing, by  its  danger,  to  the  horrors  and  the  privations  of  the 
siege. 

“ A clear  case  of  the  small-pox,  I do  assure  you,  Major 
Lincoln,”  he  continued,  “ and  contracted,  without  doubt, 
from  some  emissaries  sent  into  the  town  for  that  purpose, 
by  the  wicked  devices  of  the  rebels.” 

“ I have  heard  that  each  party  accuses  the  other  of  resort- 
ing to  these  unjustifiable  means  of  annoyance,”  returned 
Lionel ; “but,  as  I know  our  own  leader  to  be  above  such 
baseness,  I will  not  suspect  any  other  man  of  it  without 
proof. 9 9 

‘ ‘ Too  charitable  by  half,  sir,  much  too  charitable  ! But 
let  the  disease  come  whence  it  will,  I fear  my  sexton  will 
prove  its  victim.” 

‘ ‘ I will  take  the  charge  on  myself  of  having  the  fires  re- 
newed, ’ ’ said  Lionel ; ‘ 4 the  embers  must  yet  be  in  the  stoves, 
and  we  have  still  an  hour  of  time  before  us.” 

As  the  clergyman  was  much  too  conscientious  to  retain 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


571 


possession  of  the  gold  without  fully  entitling  himself  to  the 
ownership,  he  had  long  before  determined  to  comply,  not- 
withstanding the  secret  yearnings  of  his  flesh.  Their  plans 
were  now  soon  arranged,  and  Lionel,  after  receiving  the  key 
of  the  chapel,  took  his  leave  for  a time. 

When  Major  Lincoln  found  himself  in  the  street  again,  he 
walked  for  some  distance  in  the  direction  of  the  chapel, 
anxiously  looking  along  the  deserted  way,  in  order  to  dis- 
cover an  unemployed  soldier,  who  might  serve  to  perform 
the  menial  offices  of  the  absent  sexton.  He  proceeded  for 
some  distance  without  success ; for  everything  human 
seemed  housed,  even  the  number  of  lights  in  the  windows 
beginning  to  decrease  in  a manner  which  denoted  that  the 
usual  hour  of  rest  had  arrived.  He  had  paused  in  the  en- 
trance of  the  Dock  Square,  uncertain  where  to  apply  for  an 
assistant,  when  he  caught  a glimpse  of  the  figure  of  a man, 
crouching  under  the  walls  of  the  old  turreted  warehouse,  so 
often  mentioned.  Without  hesitating  an  instant,  he  ap- 
proached the  spot,  from  which  the  figure  neither  moved,  nor 
did  it  indeed  betray  any  other  evidence  of  a consciousness 
of  his  proximity.  Notwithstanding  the  dimness  of  the  moon, 
there  was  light  enough  to  detect  the  extreme  misery  of  the 
object  before  him.  His  tattered  and  thin  attire  sufficiently 
bespoke  the  motive  of  the  stranger  for  seeking  a shelter  from 
the  cutting  winds  behind  an  angle  of  the  wall,  while  his 
physical  wants  were  betrayed  by  the  eager  manner  in  which 
he  gnawed  at  a bone  that  might  well  have  been  rejected  from 
the  mess  of  the  meanest  private,  notwithstanding  the  ex- 
treme scarcity  that  prevailed  in  the  garrison.  Lionel  forgot 
for  a moment  his  present  object,  at  this  exhibition  of  human 
suffering,  and  with  a kind  voice  he  addressed  the  wretched 
being. 

“You  have  a cold  spot  to  eat  your  supper  in,  my  friend,  ” 
he  said  ; “ and  it  would  seem,  too,  but  a scanty  meal.” 

Without  ceasing  to  masticate  his  miserable  nutriment,  or 
even  raising  his  eyes,  the  other  said,  in  a growling  voice, — 

‘ ‘ The  king  could  shut  up  the  harbor,  and  keep  out  the 
ships  ; but  he  has  n’t  the  might  to  drive  cold  weather  from 
Boston,  in  the  month  of  March  ! ” 


fttonel  Lincoln 


272 


“As  I live,  Job  Pray  ! Come  with  me,  boy,  and  I will 
give 'you  a better  meal,  and  a warmer  place  to  enjoy  it  in  ; 
but  first  tell  me,  can  you  procure  a lantern  and  a light  from 
your  mother?  ” 

“ You  can’t  go  in  the  ware’ us’  to-night,”  returned  the  lad, 
positively. 

‘ ‘ Is  there  no  place  at  hand,  then,  where  such  things 
might  be  purchased  ? ’ ’ 

“They  keep  them  there,”  said  Job,  pointing  sullenly  to  a 
low  building  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  square,  through  one 
of  the  windows  of  which  a faint  light  was  glimmering. 

“ Then  take  this  money,  and  go  buy  them  for  me,  without 
delay.  ’ ’ 

Job  hesitated  with  ill-concealed  reluctance. 

‘ ‘ Go,  fellow,  I have  instant  need  of  them,  and  you  can 
keep  the  change  for  your  rewTard.” 

The  young  man  no  longer  betrayed  any  indisposition  to 
go,  but  answered  with  great  promptitude,  for  one  of  his  im- 
becile mind, — 

“Job  will  go,  if  you  will  let  him  buy  Nab  some  meat 
with  the  change.” 

‘ ‘ Certainly,  buy  what  you  will  with  it ; and  furthermore, 
I promise  you,  that  neither  your  mother  nor  yourself  shall 
want  again  for  food  or  clothing.” 

“ Job ’s  a-hungry,”  said  the  simpleton;  “but  they  say 
hunger  don’t  come  as  craving  upon  a young  stomach  as 
upon  an  old  one.  Do  you  think  the  king  knows  what  it  is 
to  be  a-cold  and  hungry  ? ” 

‘ ‘ I know  not,  boy  ; but  I know  full  well  that  if  one 
suffering  like  you  were  before  him,  his  heart  would  yearn  to 
relieve  him.  Go,  go,  and  buy  yourself  food  too,  if  they 
have  it.” 

In  a very  few  minutes  Lionel  saw  the  simpleton  issuing 
from  the  house  to  which  he  had  run  at  his  bidding,  with  the 
desired  lantern. 

“ Did  you  get  any  food  ? ” said  Lionel,  motioning  to  Job 
to  precede  him  with  the  light ; “I  trust  you  did  not  entirely 
forget  yourself  in  your  haste  to  serve  me.” 

“Job  hopes  he  didn’t  catch  the  pestilence,”  returned  the 


Xionel  Xincoln 


273 


lad,  eating  at  the  same  time  voraciously  of  a small  roll  of 
bread. 

‘ ‘ Catch  what  ? what  is  it  you  hope  you  did  not  catch  ? ’ 1 

4 ‘The  pestilence — they  are  full  of  the  foul  disorder  in 
that  house.” 

“ Do  you  mean  the  small-pox,  boy?  ” 

“Yes;  some  call  it  small-pox,  and  some  call  it  the  foul 
disorder,  and  other  some  the  pestilence.  The  king  can 
keep  out  the  trade,  but  he  can’t  keep  out  the  cold  and  the 
pestilence  from  Boston  ; but  when  the  people  get  the  town 
back,  they  ’ll  know  what  to  do  with  it — they  ’ll  send  it  all 
to  the  pest-housen  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ I hope  I have  not  exposed  you  unwittingly  to  danger, 
Job — it  would  have  been  better  had  I gone  myself ; for  I 
was  inoculated  for  the  terrible  disease  in  my  infancy.  ’ ’ 

Job,  who,  in  expressing  the  sense  of  the  danger,  had  ex- 
hausted the  stores  of  his  feeble  mind  on  the  subject,  made 
no  reply,  but  continued  walking  through  the  square,  until 
they  reached  its  termination,  when  he  turned,  and  inquired 
which  way  he  was  to  go. 

“ To  the  church,”  said  Lionel,  “and  swiftly,  lad.” 

As  they  entered  Cornhill,  they  encountered  the  fury  of 
the  wind,  when  Major  Lincoln,  bowing  his  head,  and  gath- 
ering his  cloak  about  him,  followed  the  light  which  flitted 
along  the  pavement  in  his  front.  Shut  out  in  a manner 
from  the  world  by  this  covering,  his  thoughts  returned  to 
their  former  channel,  and  in  a few  moments  he  forgot  where 
he  was,  or  whom  he  was  following.  He  was  soon  awakened 
from  his  abstraction  by  perceiving  that  it  was  necessary  for 
him  to  ascend  a few  steps,  when,  supposing  he  had  reached 
the  place  of  destination,  he  raised  his  head,  and  unthinkingly 
followed  his  conductor  into  the  tower  of  a large  edifice.  Imme- 
diately perceiving  his  mistake,  by  the  difference  of  the  archi- 
tecture from  that  of  the  King’s  Chapel,  he  reproved  the  lad 
for  his  folly,  and  demanded  why  he  had  brought  him  thither. 

“This  is  what  you  call  a church,”  said  Job,  “though  I 
call  it  a meetin’us’.  It’s  no  wonder  you  don’t  know  it — 
for  what  the  people  built  for  a temple,  the  king  has  turned 
into  a stable  ! ” 

18 


274 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


‘‘A  stable!”  exclaimed  Lionel.  Perceiving  a strong 
smell  of  horses  in  the  place,  he  advanced  and  threw  open 
the  inner  door,  when,  to  his  amazement,  he  perceived  that 
he  stood  in  an  area  fitted  for  the  exercises  of  the  cavalry. 
There  was  no  mistaking  the  place,  nor  its  uses.  The  naked 
galleries,  and  many  of  the  original  ornaments,  were  stand- 
ing ; but  the  accommodations  below  were  destroyed,  and  in 
their  places  the  floor  had  been  covered  with  earth,  for  horses 
and  their  riders  to  practise  in  the  cavesson.  The  abomina- 
tions of  the  place  even  now  offended  his  senses,  as  he  stood 
on  that  spot  where  he  remembered  so  often  to  have  seen 
the  grave  and  pious  colonists  assemble,  in  crowds,  to  wor- 
ship. Seizing  the  lantern  from  Job,  he  hurried  out  of  the 
building,  with  a disgust  that  even  the  unobservant  simpleton 
had  no  difficulty  in  discovering.  On  reaching  the  street, 
his  eyes  fell  upon  the  lights,  and  on  the  silent  dignity  of 
the  Province  House,  and  he  was  compelled  to  recollect, 
that  this  wanton  violation  of  the  feelings  of  the  colonists 
had  been  practised  directly  under  the  windows  of  the  royal 
governor. 

“ Fools,  fools  ! ” he  muttered  bitterly  ; “ when  ye  should 
have  struck  like  men,  ye  have  trifled  as  children  ; and  ye 
have  forgotten  your  manhood,  and  even  your  God,  to  in- 
dulge your  besotted  spleen  ! * ’ 

“ And  now  these  very  horses  are  starving  for  want  of 
hay,  as  a judgment  upon  them!”  said  Job,  who  shuffled 
his  way  industriously  at  the  other’s  side.  “They  had  better 
have  gone  to  meetin’  themselves,  and  heard  the  expounding, 
than  to  set  dumb  beasts  a-rioting  in  a place  that  the  Lord 
used  to  visit  so  often  ! ” 

“Tell  me,  boy,  of  what  other  act  of  folly  and  madness 
has  the  army  been  guilty  ? ” 

“ What  ! haven’t  you  heard  of  the  Old  North  ! They  ’ve 
made  oven-wood  of  the  grandest  temple  in  the  Bay  ! If 
they  dared,  they’d  lay  their  ungodly  hands  on  old  Funnel 
itself ! ’ ’ 

Lionel  made  no  reply.  He  had  heard  that  the  distresses 
of  the  garrison,  heightened  as  they  were  by  the  ceaseless 
activity  of  the  Americans,  had  compelled  them  to  convert 


Xlortel  Xincoln 


275 


many  houses,  as  well  as  the  church  in  question,  into  fuel. 
But  he  saw  in  the  act  nothing  more  than  the  usual  recourse 
of  a common  military  exigency.  It  was  free  from  that 
reckless  contempt  of  a people’s  feelings,  which  was  exhibited 
in  the  prostitution  of  the  ancient  walls  of  the  sister  edifice 
which  was  known  throughout  New  England,  with  a species 
of  veneration,  as  the  “ Old  South.”  He  continued  his  way 
gloomily  along  the  silent  streets,  until  he  reached  the  more 
favored  temple,  in  which  the  ritual  of  the  English  Church 
was  observed,  and  whose  roof  was  rendered  doubly  sacred, 
in  the  eyes  of  the  garrison,  by  the  accidental  circumstance 
of  bearing  the  title  of  their  earthly  monarch. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

“ Thou  art  too  like  the  spirit  of  Banquo ; down  ! ” 

Macbeth . 

MAJOR  LINCOLN  found  the  King’s  Chapel  differ- 
ing in  every  particular  from  the  venerable  but 
prostituted  building  he  had  just  quitted.  As  he 
entered,  the  light  of  his  lantern  played  over  the 
rich  scarlet  covering  of  many  a pew,  and  glanced  upon  the 
glittering  ornaments  of  the  polished  organ,  which  now  slum- 
bered in  as  chilled  a silence  as  the  dead,  which  lay  in  such 
multitudes  within  and  without  the  massive  walls.  The  la- 
bored columns,  with  their  slender  shafts  and  fretted  capitals, 
threw  shapeless  shadows  across  the  dim  background,  peo- 
pling the  galleries  and  ceiling  with  imaginary  phantoms  of 
thin  air.  As  this  slight  delusion  passed  away,  he  became 
sensible  of  the  change  in  the  temperature.  The  warmth 
was  not  yet  dissipated,  which  had  been  maintained  during 
the  different  services  of  the  day  ; for,  notwithstanding  the 
wants  of  the  town  and  garrison,  the  favored  temple,  where 
the  representative  of  the  sovereign  was  wont  to  worship, 
knew  not  the  ordinary  privations  of  the  place.  Job  was 
directed  to  supply  the  dying  embers  of  the  stoves  with 
fresh  fuel,  and  as  the  simpleton  well  knew  where  to  find  the 
stores  of  the  church,  his  office  was  performed  with  an  alac- 
rity that  was  not  a little  increased  by  his  own  sufferings. 

When  the  bustle  of  preparation  had  subsided,  Lionel  drew 
a chair  from  the  chancel,  while  Job  crouched  by  the  side  of 
the  quivering  iron  he  had  heated,  in  that  attitude  he  was 
wont  to  assume,  and  which  so  touchingly  expressed  the 
secret  consciousness  he  felt  of  his  own  inferiority.  As  the 
grateful  warmth  diffused  itself  over  the  half-naked  frame  of 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


277 


the  simpleton,  his  head  sunk  upon  his  bosom,  and  he  was 
fast  falling  into  a slumber,  like  a worried  hound  that  had  at 
length  found  ease  and  shelter.  A more  active  mind  would 
have  wished  to  learn  the  reasons  that  could  induce  his  com- 
panion to  seek  such  an  asylum  at  that  unseasonable  hour. 
But  Job  was  a stranger  to  curiosity  ; nor  did  the  occasional 
glimmerings  of  the  mind  often  extend  beyond  those  holy 
precepts  which  had  been  taught  him  with  such  care,  before 
disease  had  sapped  his  faculties,  or  those  popular  principles 
of  the  time,  that  formed  so  essential  a portion  of  the  thoughts 
of  every  New  Englandman. 

Not  so  with  Major  Lincoln.  His  watch  told  him  that 
many  weary  minutes  must  elapse  before  he  could  expect  to 
receive  his  bride ; and  he  disposed  himself  to  wait,  with  as 
much  patience  as  comported  with  five-and-twenty,  and  the 
circumstances.  In  a short  time  the  stillness  of  the  chapel 
was  restored,  interrupted  only  by  the  passing  gusts  of  the 
wind  without,  and  the  dull  roaring  of  the  furnace,  by  whose 
side  Job  slumbered  in  a state  of  happy  oblivion. 

Lionel  endeavored  to  still  his  truant  thoughts,  and  bring 
them  in  training  for  the  solemn  ceremony  in  which  he  was 
soon  to  be  an  actor.  Finding  the  task  too  difficult,  he 
arose,  and  approaching  a window,  looked  out  upon  the 
solitude,  and  the  whirlwinds  of  snow  that  drifted  through 
the  streets,  eagerly  listening  for  those  sounds  of  approach, 
which  his  reason  told  him  he  ought  not  yet  to  expect. 
Again  he  seated  himself  and  turned  his  eyes  inquiringly 
about  him,  with  a sort  of  inward  apprehension  that  some 
one  lay  concealed,  in  the  surrounding  gloom,  with  a secret 
desire  to  mar  his  approaching  happiness.  There  was  so 
much  of  wild  and  feverish  romance  in  the  incidents  of  the 
day,  that  he  found  it  difficult,  at  moments,  to  credit  their 
reality,  and  had  recourse  to  hasty  glances  at  the  alter,  his 
attire,  and  even  his  insensible  companion,  to  remove  the 
delusion  from  his  mind.  Again  he  looked  upward  at  the 
unsteady  and  huge  shadows  which  wavered  along  the 
ceiling  of  the  walls,  and  his  former  apprehensions  of  some 
hidden  evil  were  revived  with  a vividness  that  amounted 
nearly  to  a presentiment.  So  uneasy  did  he  become  at 


2jS 


^Lionel  Xincolrt 


length,  under  this  impression,  that  he  walked  along  the 
more  distant  aisles,  scrupulously  looking  into  the  dark  pews, 
and  throwing  a scrutinizing  glance  behind  each  column,  and 
was  rewarded  for  his  trouble  by  hearing  the  hollow  echoes 
of  his  own  footsteps. 

In  returning  from  this  round,  he  approached  the  stove, 
and  yielded  to  a strong  desire  of  listening  to  the  voice  of 
even  Job,  in  a moment  of  such  morbid  excitement.  Touch- 
ing the  simpleton  lightly  with  his  foot,  the  other  awoke 
with  that  readiness  which  denoted  the  sudden  and  disturbed 
nature  of  his  ordinary  rest. 

‘‘You  are  unusually  dull  to-night,  Job,”  said  Lionel, 
endeavoring  to  hush  his  uneasiness  in  affected  pleasantry, 
‘ ‘ or  you  would  inquire  the  reason  why  I pay  my  visit  to 
the  church  at  this  extraordinary  hour.” 

“ Boston  folks  love  their  meetin’us’s,”  returned  the  obtuse 
simpleton. 

“ Ay  ! but  they  love  their  beds,  too,  fellow  ; and  one  half 
of  them  are  now  enjoying  what  you  seem  to  covet  so  much.” 

‘‘Job  loves  to  eat,  and  be  warm  ! ” 

“And  to  sleep  too,  if  one  may  judge  by  your  drowsi- 
ness. ’ ’ 

“Yes,  sleep  is  sweet ; Job  don’t  feel  a-hungered  when  he’s 
sleeping.” 

Lionel  remained  silent  for  several  moments,  under  a keen 
perception  of  the  suffering  exhibited  in  the  touching  help- 
lessness which  marked  the  manner  of  the  other,  before  he 
continued, — 

“ But  I expect  to  be  joined  soon  by  the  clergyman,  and 
some  ladies,  and  Captain  Polwarth.” 

“Job  likes  Captain  Polwarth — he  keeps  a grand  sight  of 
provisions  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Enough  of  this  ! can  you  think  of  nothing  but  your 
stomach,  boy  ? ” 

“ God  made  hunger,”  said  Job,  gloomily,  “ and  he  made 
food  too  ; but  the  king  keeps  it  for  his  rake-hellies  ! ” 

“ Well,  listen,  and  be  attentive  to  what  I tell  you.  One 
of  the  ladies  who  will  come  here  is  Miss  Dynevor ; you  know 
Miss  Dynevor,  Job  ? the  beautiful  Miss  Dynevor  ! ” 


%ionc l ^Lincoln 


279 


The  charms  of  Cecil  had  not,  however,  made  their  wonted 
impression  on  the  dull  eye  of  the  idiot,  who  still  regarded 
the  speaker  with  his  customary  air  of  apathy. 

“Surely,  Job,  you  know  Miss  Dynevor  ! ” repeated  Lio- 
nel, with  an  irritability  that,  at  any  other  time,  he  would 
have  been  the  first  to  smile  at ; “ she  has  often  given  you 
money  and  clothes.  ’ ’ 

“ Yes  ; Ma’am  Lechmere  is  her  grandam  ! ” 

This  was  certainly  one  of  the  least  recommendations  his 
mistress  possessed  in  the  eyes  of  Lionel,  who  paused  a mo- 
ment, with  inward  vexation,  before  he  added, — 

“Let  who  will  be  her  relatives,  she  is  this  night  to  be- 
come my  wife.  You  will  remain  and  witness  the  ceremony, 
and  then  you  will  extinguish  the  lights,  and  return  the  key 
of  the  church  to  Dr.  Liturgy.  In  the  morning,  come  to  me 
for  your  reward.” 

The  changeling  arose  with  an  air  of  singular  importance, 
and  answered, — 

“ To  be  sure.  Major  Lincoln  is  to  be  married,  and  he  asks 
Job  to  the  wedding  ! Now,  Nab  may  preach  her  sarmons 
about  pride  and  flauntv  feelings  as  much  as  she  will  ; but 
blood  is  blood,  and  flesh  is  flesh,  for  all  her  sayings  ! ” 

Struck  by  the  expression  of  wild  meaning  that  gleamed 
in  the  eyes  of  the  simpleton,  Major  Lincoln  demanded  an 
explanation  of  his  ambiguous  language.  But  ere  Job  had 
leisure  to  reply,  though  his  vacant  look  again  denoted  that 
his  thoughts  were  already  contracting  themselves  within 
their  usually  narrow  limits,  a sudden  noise  drew  the  atten- 
tion of  both  to  the  entrance  of  the  chapel.  The  door  opened 
in  the  next  instant,  and  the  figure  of  the  divine,  powdered 
with  drifted  snow,  and  encased  in  various  defences  against 
the  cold,  was  seen,  moving  with  a becoming  gravity,  through 
the  principal  aisle.  Lionel  hastened  to  receive  him,  and  to 
conduct  him  to  the  seat  he  had  just  occupied  himself. 

When  Dr.  Liturgy  had  uncloaked,  and  appeared  in  his 
robes  of  office,  the  benevolence  of  his  smile,  and  the  whole 
expression  of  his  countenance,  denoted  that  he  was  satisfied 
with  the  condition  in  which  he  found  the  preparations. 

‘ ‘ There  is  no  reason  why  a church  should  not  be  as  com- 


280 


Xfonel  Xincoln 


fortable  as  a man’s  library,  Major  Lincoln,”  he  said,  hitch- 
in g his  seat  a little  nearer  to  the  stove.  “ It  is  a puritanical 
and  a dissenting  idea,  that  religion  has  anything  forbidding 
or  gloomy  in  its  nature  ; and  wherefore  should  we  assemble 
amid  pains  and  inconvenience  to  discharge  its  sacred 
offices  ? ’ ’ 

“Quite  true,  sir,”  returned  Lionel,  looking  anxiously 
through  one  of  the  windows  ; “I  have  not  yet  heard  the 
hour  of  ten  strike,  though  my  watch  tells  me  it  is  time  ! ’ 5 
‘ ‘ The  weather  renders  the  public  clocks  very  irregular. 
There  are  so  many  unavoidable  evils  to  which  flesh  is  heir, 
that  we  should  endeavor  to  be  happy  on  all  occasions — 
indeed  it  is  a duty — ’ ’ 

“ It  ’snot  in  the  natur’  of  sin  to  make  fallen  man  happy,” 
said  a low,  growling  voice  from  behind  the  stove. 

“Ha!  what!  did  you  speak,  Major  Lincoln — a very 
singular  sentiment  for  a bridegroom  ! ” muttered  the  divine. 

“’T  is  that  weak  young  man,  whom  I have  brought 
hither  to  assist  with  the  fires,  repeating  some  of  the  lore  of 
his  mother  ; nothing  else,  sir.” 

By  this  time  Dr.  Liturgy  had  caught  a glimpse  of  the 
crouching  Job,  and  comprehending  the  interruption,  he  fell 
back  in  his  chair,  smiling  superciliously  as  he  continued, — 
“ I know  the  lad,  sir  ; I should  know  him.  He  is  learned 
in  the  texts,  and  somewhat  given  to  disputation  in  matters  of 
religion.  ’T  is  a pity  the  little  intellect  he  has,  had  not  been 
better  managed  in  his  infancy  ; but  they  have  helped  to 
crush  his  feeble  mind  with  their  subtilties.  We — I mean 

we  of  the  established  church — often  style  him  the  Boston 
Calvin — ha,  ha,  ha  ! Old  Cotton  was  not  his  equal  in  sub- 
tilty  ! But  speaking  of  the  establishment,  do  you  not  fancy 
that  one  of  the  consequences  of  this  rebellion  will  be  to  ex- 
tend its  benefits  to  the  colonies,  and  that  we  may  look  for- 
ward to  the  period  when  the  true  church  shall  possess  its 
inheritance  in  these  religious  provinces  ? ’ ’ 

“O,  most  certainly  !”  said  Lionel,  again  walking  anx- 
iously to  the  window  ; “ would  to  God  they  had  come  ! ” 
The  divine,  with  whom  weddings  were  matters  of  too 
frequent  occurrence  to  awaken  his  sympathies,  understood 


Xtortel  Xincolrt 


281 


the  impatient  bridegroom  literally,  and  replied  accord- 
ingly— 

“ I am  glad  to  hear  you  say  it,  Major  Lincoln,  and  I hope, 
when  the  act  of  amnesty  shall  be  passed,  to  find  your  vote 
on  the  side  of  such  a condition.” 

At  this  instant  Lionel  caught  a glimpse  of  the  well- 
known  sleigh,  moving  slowly  along  the  deserted  street,  and, 
uttering  a cry  of  pleasure,  he  rushed  to  the  door  to  receive 
his  bride.  Dr.  Liturgy  finished  his  sentence  to  himself,  and 
rising  from  his  comfortable  position,  he  took  the  light,  and 
entered  the  chancel.  The  disposition  of  the  candles  having 
been  previously  made,  when  they  were  lighted,  his  book 
opened,  his  robes  adjusted,  and  his  features  settled  into  a 
suitable  degree  of  solemnity,  he  stood,  waiting  with  becom- 
ing dignity  the  approach  of  those  over  whom  he  was  to  pro* 
nounce  the  nuptial  benediction.  Job  placed  himself  within 
the  shadows  of  the  building,  and  stood  regarding  the  attitude 
and  imposing  aspect  of  the  priest,  with  a species  of  childish 
awe. 

Then  came  a group,  emerging  from  the  obscurity  of  the 
distant  part  of  the  church,  and  moving  slowly  towards  the 
altar.  Cecil  was  in  front,  leaning  on  that  arm  which  Lionel 
had  given  her,  as  much  for  support,  as  through  courtesy. 
She  had  removed  her  outer  and  warmer  garments  in  the  ves- 
tibule of  the  sacred  edifice,  and  now  appeared,  attired  in  a 
manner  as  well  suited  to  the  suddenness  and  privacy,  as  to 
the  importance  of  the  ceremony.  A mantle  of  satin,  trimmed 
with  delicate  furs,  fell  carelessly  from  her  shoulders,  partly 
concealing  by  its  folds  the  exquisite  proportions  of  her  slender 
form.  Beneath  was  a vestment  of  the  same  rich  material, 
cut  after  the  fashions  of  that  period,  in  a manner  to  give  the 
exact  outlines  of  the  bust.  Across  the  stomacher  were  deep 
rows  of  fine  lace,  and  wide  borders  of  the  same  valuable  tex- 
ture followed  the  retiring  edges  of  her  robe,  leaving  the 
costly  dress  within  partly  exposed  to  the  eye.  But  the  beauty 
and  simplicity  of  her  attire  (it  was  simple  for  that  day)  was 
lost,  or  rather  it  served  to  adorn,  unnoticed,  the  melancholy 
beauty  of  her  countenance. 

As  they  approached  the  expecting  priest,  Cecil  threw,  by 


282 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


a gentle  movement,  her  mantle  on  the  rails  of  the  chancel, 
and  accompanied  Lionel  with  a firmer  tread  than  before  to 
the  foot  of  the  altar.  Her  cheeks  were  pale  ; but  it  was 
rather  with  a compelled  resolution  than  dread,  while  her 
eyes  were  full  of  tenderness  and  thought.  Of  the  two  dev- 
otees of  Hymen,  she  exhibited,  if  not  the  most  composure, 
certainly  the  most  singleness  of  purpose,  and  intentness  on 
the  duty  before  them ; for  while  the  looks  of  Lionel  were 
stealing  uneasily  about  the  building,  as  if  he  expected  some 
hidden  object  to  start  up  out  of  the  darkness,  hers  were 
riveted  on  the  priest  in  sweet  and  earnest  attention. 

They  paused  in  their  allotted  places  ; and  after  a moment 
was  allowed  for  Agnes  and  Polwarth,  who  alone  followed, 
to  enter  the  chancel,  the  low  but  deep  tones  of  the  minister 
were  heard  in  the  solemn  stillness  of  the  place. 

Dr.  Liturgy  had  borrowed  a suitable  degree  of  inspiration 
from  the  dreariness  of  the  hour,  and  the  solitude  of  the 
building  where  he  was  required  to  discharge  his  sacred 
functions.  As  he  delivered  the  opening  exhortation  of  the 
service,  he  made  long  and  frequent  pauses  between  the 
members  of  the  sentences,  giving  to  each  injunction  a dis- 
tinct and  impressive  emphasis.  But  when  he  came  to  those 
closing  words — 

‘ ‘ If  any  man  can  show  just  cause  why  they  may  not  be 
lawfully  joined  together,  let  him  now  speak , or  else,  hereafter, 
forever  hold  his  peace  ” — 

he  lifted  his  voice,  and  raised  his  eyes  to  the  more  distant 
parts  of  the  chapel,  as  though  he  addressed  a multitude  in 
the  gloom.  The  faces  of  all  present  involuntarily  followed 
the  direction  of  his  gaze,  and  a moment  of  deep  expectation, 
which  can  only  be  explained  by  the  singularly  wild  char- 
acter of  the  scene,  succeeded  the  reverberation  of  his  tones. 
At  that  moment,  when  each  had  taken  breath,  and  all  were 
again  turning  to  the  altar,  a huge  shadow  rose  upon  the 
gallery,  and  extended  itself  along  the  ceiling,  until  its 
gigantic  proportions  were  seen  hovering,  like  an  evil  spec- 
tre, nearly  above  them. 

The  clergyman  .suspended  the  half-uttered  sentence.  Ce- 
cil grasped  the  arm  of  Lionel  convulsively,  while  a shudder 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


283 


passed  through  her  frame,  that  seemed  about  to  shake  it  to 
dissolution. 

The  shadowy  image  then  slowly  withdrew,  not  without, 
however,  throwing  out  a fantastic  gesture,  with  an  arm 
which  stretched  itself  across  the  vaulted  roof,  and  down  the 
walls,  as  if  about  to  clutch  its  victims  beneath. 

‘ ‘ If  any  man  can  show  just  cause  why  they  may  not  be 
lawfully  joined  together , let  him  now  speak , or  else , hereafter , 
forever  hold  his  peace  f repeated  the  priest  aloud,  as  if  he 
would  summon  the  universe  at  the  challenge. 

Again  the  shadow  rose,  presenting  this  time  the  strong 
and  huge  lineaments  of  a human  face,  which  it  was  not 
difficult,  at  such  a moment,  to  fancy  possessed  even  expres- 
sion and  life.  Its  strongly  marked  features  seemed  to  work 
with  powerful  emotion,  and  the  lips  moved  as  if  the  airy 
being  was  speaking  to  unearthly  ears.  Next  came  two 
arms,  raised  above  the  gazing  group,  with  clasped  hands, 
as  in  the  act  of  benediction,  after  which  the  whole  vanished, 
leaving  the  ceiling  in  its  own  dull  white,  and  the  building 
still  as  the  graves  which  surrounded  it. 

Once  more  the  excited  minister  uttered  the  summons  ; and 
again  every  eye  was  drawn,  as  by  a secret  impulse,  to  a spot 
which  seemed  to  possess  the  form,  without  the  substance,  of 
a human  being.  But  the  shadow  was  seen  no  more.  After 
waiting  several  moments  in  vain,  Dr.  liturgy  proceeded, 
with  a voice  in  which  a growing  tremor  was  very  per- 
ceptible ; but  no  further  interruption  was  experienced  to  the 
end  of  the  service. 

Cecil  pronounced  her  vows,  and  plighted  her  troth,  in 
tones  of  holy  emotion  ; while  Lionel,  who  was  prepared  for 
some  strange  calamity,  went  through  the  service  to  the  end, 
with  a forced  calmness.  They  were  married  ; and  when  the 
blessing  was  uttered,  not  a sound  nor  a whisper  was  heard 
in  the  party.  Silently  they  all  turned  away  from  the  spot, 
and  prepared  to  leave  the  place.  Cecil  stood  passively,  and 
permitted  Lionel  to  wrap  her  form  in  the  folds  of  her  mantle 
with  tender  cafe  ; and  when  she  would  have  smiled  her 
thanks  for  the  attention  she  merely  raised  her  anxious  eyes 
to  the  ceiling,  with  an  expression  that  could  not  be  mis- 


284 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


taken.  Even  Polwarth  was  mute ; and  Agnes  forgot  to 
offer  those  congratulations  and  good  wishes,  with  which  her 
heart  had  so  recently  been  swelling. 

The  clergyman  uttered  a few  words  of  caution  to  Job  con- 
cerning the  candles  and  the  fire,  and  hurried  after  the  retir- 
ing party  with  a quickness  of  step  that  he  was  willing  to 
ascribe  to  the  lateness  of  the  hour,  and  with  a total  disregard 
to  the  safety  of  the  edifice ; leaving  the  chapel  to  the  pos- 
session of  the  ill-gifted,  but  undisturbed  son  of  Abigail 
Pray, 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

“ Forbear  to  judge,  for  we  are  sinners  all ; 

Close  up  his  eyes,  and  draw  the  curtain  close  ; 

And  let  us  all  to  meditation.’ ’ 

King  Henry  VI. 

THE  bridal  party  entered  their  little  vehicle  silent 
and  thoughtful ; the  voice  of  Polwarth  being 
alone  audible,  as  he  gave  a few  low  and  hurried 
orders  to  the  groom  who  was  in  waiting.  Dr. 
Liturgy  approached  for  a moment,  and  made  his  compli- 
ments, when  the  sleigh  darted  away  from  before  the  build- 
ing, as  swiftly  as  if  the  horses  that  drew  it  partook  of  the 
secret  uneasiness  of  those  it  held.  The  movements  of  the 
divine,  though  less  rapid,  were  equally  diligent,  and  in  less 
than  a minute  the  winds  whistled,  and  clouds  of  snow  were 
driven  through  a street  which  everything  possessing  life 
appeared  once  more  to  have  abandoned. 

The  instant  Polwarth  had  discharged  his  load  at  the  door 
of  Mrs.  Lechmere,  he  muttered  something  of  “happiness, 
and  to-morrow,”  which  his  friend  did  not  understand,  and 
dashed  through  the  gate  of  the  courtyard,  at  the  same  mad 
rate  that  he  had  driven  from  the  church.  On  entering  the 
house,  Agnes  repaired  to  the  room  of  her  aunt,  to  report 
that  the  marriage  knot  was  tied,  while  Lionel  led  his  silent 
bride  into  the  empty  parlor. 

Cecil  stood,  fixed  and  motionless  as  a statue,  while  her 
husband  removed  her  cloak  and  mantle ; her  cheeks 
pale,  her  eyes  riveted  on  the  floor,  and  her  whole  attitude 
and  manner  exhibiting  the  intensity  of  thought  which  had 
been  created  by  the  scene  in  which  she  had  just  been  an 
actor.  When  he  had  relieved  her  light  form  from  the  load  of 


286 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


garments  in  which  it  had  been  enveloped  by  his  care,  he  im- 
pelled her  gently  to  a seat  by  his  side  on  the  settee,  and  for 
the  first  time  since  she  had  uttered  the  final  vow  at  the  altar, 
she  spoke, — 

“ Was  it  a fearful  omen  ? ” she  whispered,  as  he  folded  her 
to  his  heart,  “ or  was  it  no  more  than  a horrid  fancy  ? ” 
“’Twas  nothing,  love — ’twas  a shadow — that  of  Job 
Pray,  who  was  with  me  to  light  the  fires.’ ’ 

“ No,  no,  no!”  said  Cecil,  speaking  with  the  rapidity  of 
high  excitement,  and  in  tones  that  gathered  strength  as  she 
proceeded;  “those  were  never  the  unmeaning  features  of 
the  miserable  simpleton  ! Know  you,  Lincoln,  that  in  the 
haught}^  the  terrific  outlines  of  those  dreadful  lineaments 
on  the  wall,  I fancied  a resemblance  to  the  profile  of  our 
great-uncle,  your  father’s  predecessor  in  the  title,  Dark  Sir 
Lionel,  as  he  was  called.” 

“ It  was  easy  to  fancy  anything,  at  such  a time,  and  under 
such  circumstances.  Do  not  cloud  the  happiness  of  our 
bridal  by  these  gloomy  fancies.” 

“Am  I gloomy  or  superstitious  by  habit,  Lionel?”  she 
asked,  with  a deprecating  tenderness  in  her  voice,  that 
touched  his  inmost  heart.  “But  it  came  at  such  a mo- 
ment, and  in  such  a shape,  that  I should  be  more  than 
woman  not  to  tremble  at  its  terrible  import  ! ” 

“ What  is  your  dread,  Cecil  ? Are  we  not  married  ; law- 
fully, solemnly  united?” — the  bride  shuddered;  but  per- 
ceiving her  unwilling,  or  unable  to  answer,  he  continued — 
“ beyond  the  power  of  man  to  sever  ; and  with  the  consent, 
nay,  by  the  earnest  wish,  the  command,  of  the  only  being 
who  can  have  a right  to  express  a wish,  or  have  an  opinion 
on  the  subject?  ” 

“ I believe — that  is,  I think,  it  is  all  as  you  say,  Lionel,” 
returned  Cecil,  still  looking  about  her  with  a vacant  and 
distressed  air,  that  curdled  his  blood;  “yes — yes,  we  are 
certainly  married  ; and  O ! how  ardently  do  I implore  Him 
who  sees  and  governs  all  things,  that  our  union  may  be 
blessed  ! but — ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ But  what,  Cecil  ? will  you  let  a thing  of  naught — a 
shadow— affect  you  in  this  manner  ? ” 


^Lionel  Xlncoln 


287 


“ ’Twas  a shadow,  as  you  say,  Lincoln  ; but  where  was 
the  substance  ? 9 ’ 

“ Cecil,  my  sensible,  my  good,  my  pious  Cecil,  why  do 
your  faculties  slumber  in  this  unaccountable  apathy  ? Ask 
your  own  excellent  reason  ; can  there  be  a shade  where 
nothing  obstructs  the  light  ? ’ ’ 

“ I know  not.  I cannot  reason — I have  not  reason.  All 
things  are  possible  to  Him  whose  will  is  law  and  whose 
slightest  wish  shakes  the  universe.  There  was  a shadow,  a 
dark,  a speaking,  and  a terrible  shadow  ; but  who  can  say 
where  was  the  reality  ? 99 

“ I had  almost  answered,  with  the  phantom,  only  in  your 
sensitive  imagination,  love.  But  arouse  your  slumbering 
powers,  Cecil,  and  reflect  how  possible  it  was  for  some  curi- 
ous idler  of  the  garrison  to  have  watched  my  movements, 
and  to  have  secreted  himself  in  the  chapel  ; perhaps  from 
wanton  mischief,  perhaps  without  motive  of  any  kind.” 

‘ ‘ He  then  chose  an  awful  moment  in  which  to  act  his 
gambols  ! 99 

“ It  may  have  been  one  whose  knowledge  was  just  equal 
to  giving  a theatrical  effect  to  his  silly  deception.  But  are 
we  to  be  cheated  of  our  happiness  by  such  weak  devices ; 
or  to  be  miserable  because  Boston  contains  a fool  ? ’ 9 

“ I may  be  weak,  and  silly,  and  even  impious  in  this  ter- 
ror, Lincoln,”  she  said,  turning  her  softened  looks  upon  his 
anxious  face,  and  attempting  to  smile  ; ‘ ‘ but  it  is  assailing  a 
woman  in  a point  where  she  is  most  sensitive.  You  know 
that  I have  no  reserve  with  you,  now.  Marriage  with  us  is 
the  tie  that  ‘ binds  all  charities  in  one,’  and  at  the  moment 
when  the  heart  is  full  of  its  own  security,  is  it  not  dreadful 
to  have  such  mysterious  presages,  be  they  true,  or  be  they 
false,  answering  to  the  awful  appeal  of  the  church  ! ” 

“ Nor  is  the  tie  less  binding,  less  important,  or  less  dear, 
my  own  Cecil,  to  us.  Believe  me,  whatever  the  pride  of 
manhood  may  say  of  high  destinies,  and  glorious  deeds,  the 
same  affections  are  deeply  seated  in  our  nature,  and  must  be 
soothed  by  those  we  love,  and  not  by  those  who  contribute 
to  our  vanity.  Why  then  permit  this  chill  to  blight  your 
best  affections  in  their  budding  ? ’ ’ 


288 


Xtonel  Xincolrt 


There  was  so  much  that  was  soothing  to  the  anxiety  of  a 
bride,  in  his  sentiments,  and  so  much  of  tender  interest  in 
his  manner,  that  he  at  length  succeeded,  in  a great  degree, 
in  luring  Cecil  from  her  feverish  apprehensions.  As  he 
spoke,  a mantling  bloom  diffused  itself  over  her  cold  and 
pallid  cheeks,  and  when  he  had  done,  her  eyes  lighted 
with  the  glow  of  a woman’s  confidence,  and  were  turned  on 
his  own  in  bright,  but  blushing  pleasure.  She  repeated  his 
word  44  chill,”  with  an  emphasis  and  a smile  that  could 
not  be  misconstrued,  and  in  a few  minutes  he  entirely  suc- 
ceeded in  quelling  the  uneasy  presentiments  that  had 
gained  a momentary  ascendency  over  her  clear  and  excellent 
faculties. 

But  notwithstanding  Major  Lincoln  reasoned  well,  and 
with  so  much  success,  against  the  infirmity  of  his  bride,  he 
was  by  no  means  equal  to  maintain  as  just  an  argument  with 
himself.  The  morbid  sensibility  of  his  mind  had  been 
awakened  in  a most  alarming  manner  by  the  occurrences  of 
the  evening,  though  his  warm  interest  in  the  happiness  of 
Cecil  had  enabled  him  to  smother  them,  so  long  as  he  wit- 
nessed the  extent  and  nature  of  her  apprehensions.  But, 
exactly  in  the  proportion  as  he  persuaded  her  into  forgetful- 
ness of  the  past,  his  recollections  became  more  vivid  and 
keen  ; and,  notwithstanding  his  art,  he  might  not  have  been 
able  to  conceal  the  workings  of  his  troubled  thoughts  from 
his  companion,  had  not  Agnes  appeared,  and  announced 
the  desire  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  to  receive  the  bride  and  bride- 
groom in  her  sick  chamber. 

44  Come,  Lincoln,”  said  his  lovely  companion,  rising  at  the 
summons,  4 4 we  have  been  selfish  in  forgetting  how  strongly 
my  grandmother  sympathizes  in  our  good  or  evil  fortunes. 
We  should  have  discharged  this  duty  without  waiting  to  be 
reminded  of  it.” 

Without  making  any  other  reply  than  a fond  pressure  of 
the  hand  he  held,  Lionel  drew  her  arm  through  his  own,  and 
followed  Agnes  into  the  little  hall  which  conducted  to  the 
upper  part  of  the  dwelling. 

44  You  know  the  way,  Major  Lincoln,”  said  Miss  Dan- 
forth  ; 44  and  should  you  not,  my  lady  bride  can  show  you. 


Xfonel  Xfncoln 


289 


I must  go  and  cast  a worldly  eye  on  the  little  banquet  I have 
ordered,  but  which  I fear  will  be  labor  thrown  away,  since 
Captain  Polwarth  has  disdained  to  exhibit  his  prowess  at 
the  board.  Truly,  Major  Lincoln,  I marvel  that  a man  of 
so  much  substance  as  your  friend,  should  be  frightened  from 
his  stomach  by  a shadow  ! 9 ’ 

Cecil  even  laughed,  and  in  those  sweet  feminine  tones  that 
are  infectious,  at  the  humor  of  her  cousin  ; but  the  dark  and 
anxious  expression  that  gathered  round  the  brow  of  her 
husband  as  suddenly  checked  her  mirth. 

“ Let  us  ascend,  Lincoln,”  she  said,  instantly,  “ and  leave 
mad  Agnes  to  her  household  cares,  and  her  folly/  ’ 

“Ay,  go,”  cried  the  other,  turning  away  towards  the 
supper-room  ; ‘ ‘ eating  and  drinking  is  not  ethereal  enough 
for  your  elevated  happiness  ; would  I had  a repast  worthy  of 
such  sentimental  enjoyment  ! Let  me  see — dew-drops,  and 
lovers’  tears,  in  equal  quantities,  sweetened  by  Cupid’s 
smiles,  with  a dish  of  sighs,  drawn  by  moonlight,  for  piq- 
uancy, as  Polwarth  would  say,  would  flavor  a bowl  to  their 
tastes.  The  dew-drops  might  be  difficult  to  procure,  at  this 
inclement  season,  and  in  such  a night ; but  if  sighs  and  tears 
would  serve  alone,  poor  Boston  is  just  now  rich  enough  in  « 
materials  ! ’ ’ 

Lionel,  and  his  half-blushing,  half-smiling  companion, 
heard  the  dying  sounds  of  her  voice,  as  she  entered  the  dis- 
tant apartment,  expressing,  by  its  tones,  the  mingled  pleas- 
antry and  spleen  of  its  mistress,  and  in  the  next  instant  they 
forgot  both  Agnes  and  her  humor,  as  they  found  themselves 
in  the  presence  of  Mrs.  Lechmere. 

The  first  glance  of  his  eye  at  their  expecting  relative, 
brought  a painful  throb  to  the  heart  of  Major  Lincoln.  Mrs. 
Lechmere  had  caused  herself  to  be  raised  in  the  bed,  in  which 
she  was  seated  nearly  upright,  supported  by  pillows.  Her 
wrinkled  and  emaciated  cheeks  were  flushed  with  an  un- 
natural color,  that  contrasted  too  violently  with  the  marks 
which  age  and  strong  passions  had  impressed,  with  their 
indelible  fingers,  on  the  surrounding  wreck  of  those  haughty 
features,  which  had  once  been  distinguished  for  great,  if.not 

attractive  beauty.  Her  hard  eyes  had  lost  their  ordinary 
19 


290 


Xionei  Xtncoht 


expression  of  worldly  care,  in  a brightness  which  caused 
them  rather  to  glare  than  to  beam  with  flashes  of  unbridled 
satisfaction  that  could  no  longer  be  repressed.  In  short,  her 
whole  appearance  brought  a startling  conviction  to  the  mind 
of  the  young  man,  that  whatever  might  have  been  the  ardor 
of  his  own  feelings  in  espousing  her  grandchild,  he  had  at 
length  realized  the  fondest  desires  of  a being  so  worldly,  so 
designing,  and,  as  he  was  now  made  keenly  to  remember,  of 
one  also,  who,  he  had  much  reason  to  apprehend,  was  so 
guilty.  The  invalid  did  not  seem  to  think  a concealment  of 
her  exultation  any  longer  necessary  ; for  stretching  out  her 
arms,  she  called  to  her  child,  in  a voice  raised  above  its 
natural  tones,  and  wdiich  was  dissonant  and  harsh  from  a sort 
of  unholy  triumph, — 

“ Come  to  my  arms,  my  pride,  my  hope  ; my  dutiful,  my 
deserving  daughter  ! Come,  and  receive  a parent’s  blessing, 
that  blessing  which  you  so  much  deserve  ! ” 

Even  Cecil,  warm  and  consoling  as  was  the  language  of 
her  grandmother,  hesitated  an  instant  at  the  unnatural  voice 
in  which  the  summons  was  uttered,  and  advanced  to  meet 
her  embrace  with  a manner  less  warm  than  was  usual  to  her 
own  ardent  and  unsuspecting  nature.  This  secret  restraint 
existed,  however,  but  for  a moment ; for  when  she  felt  the 
encircling  arms  of  Mrs.  Eechmere  pressing  her  warmly  to 
her  aged  bosom,  she  looked  up  into  the  face  of  her  grand- 
mother, as  if  to  thank  her  for  so  much  affection,  by  her  own 
guileless  smiles  and  tears. 

“ Here,  then,  Major  Lincoln,  you  possess  my  greatest,  I 
had  almost  said  my  only  treasure  ! ” added  Mrs.  Eechmere. 
‘ ‘ She  is  a good,  a gentle,  and  dutiful  child  ; and  Heaven 
will  bless  her  for  it,  as  I do.”  Leaning  forward,  she  con- 
tinued, in  a less  excited  voice,  ‘ ‘ Kiss  me,  my  Cecil,  my 
bride,  my  Lady  Lincoln  ! for  by  that  loved  title  I may 
now  call  you,  as  yours,  in  the  course  of  nature,  it  soon 
will  be.” 

Cecil,  greatly  shocked  at  the  unguarded  exultation  of  her 
grandmother,  gently  withdrew  herself  from  her  arms,  and 
with  eyes  bent  to  the  floor  in  shame,  and  burning  cheeks, 
she  willingly  moved  aside,  to  allow  Lionel  to  approach,  and 


Xtonel  Xincoln 


291 


receive  his  share  of  the  congratulations.  He  stooped  to 
bestow  the  cold  and  reluctant  kiss  which  the  offered  cheek 
of  Mrs.  Lechmere  invited,  and  muttered  a few  incoherent 
words  concerning  his  present  happiness,  and  the  obligation 
she  had  conferred.  Notwithstanding  the  high  and  disgust- 
ing triumph  which  had  broken  through  the  usually  cold  and 
cautious  manner  of  the  invalid,  a powerful  and  unbidden 
touch  of  nature  mingled  in  her  address  to  the  bridegroom. 
The  fiery  and  unnatural  glow  of  her  eyes  even  softened  with 
a tear,  as  she  spoke, — 

“ Lionel,  my  nephew,  my  son,”  she  said,  “I  have  en- 
deavored to  receive  you  in  a manner  worthy  of  the  head  of 
an  ancient  and  honorable  name  ; but  were  you  a sovereign 
prince,  I have  now  done  my  last  and  best  in  your  favor. 
Cherish  her,  love  her,  be  more  than  husband,  be  all  of  kin 
to  the  precious  child,  for  she  merits  all  ! Now  is  my  latest 
wish  fulfilled  ! Now  may  I prepare  myself  for  the  last  great 
change,  in  the  quiet  of  a long  and  tranquil  evening  to  the 
weary  and  troublesome  day  of  life  ! ’ 9 

“ Woman!”  saida  tremulous  voice  in  the  background, 
“ thou  deceivest  thyself  ! 99 

“ Who,”  exclaimed  Mrs.  Rechmere,  raising  her  body  with 
a convulsive  start,  as  if  about  to  leap  from  the  bed,  ‘ ‘ who 
is  it  speaks  ? ’ ’ 

“ ’Tis  I,”  returned  the  well-remembered  tones  of  Ralph, 
as  he  advanced  from  the  door  to  the  foot  of  her  couch,  ” ’tis 
I,  Priscilla  L,echmere  ; one  who  knows  thy  merits,  and  thy 
doom  ! ” 

The  appalled  woman  fell  back  on  her  pillows,  gasping  for 
breath,  the  flush  of  her  cheeks  giving  place  to  their  former 
signs  of  age  and  disease,  and  her  eye  losing  its  high  exulta- 
tion in  the  glazed  look  of  sudden  terror.  It  would  seem, 
however,  that  a single  moment  of  reflection  was  sufficient  to 
restore  her  spirit,  and  with  it  all  her  deep  resentments.  She 
motioned  the  intruder  away,  by  a violent  gesture  of  the 
hand,  and  after  an  effort  to  command  her  utterance,  she 
said,  in  a voice  rendered  doubly  strong  by  overwhelming 
passion, — 

“ Why  am  I braved,  at  such  a moment,  in  the  privacy  of 


292 


Xiottel  Xtncoln 


my  sick-chamber  ? Have  that  madman,  or  impostor,  which- 
ever he  may  be,  removed  from  my  presence  ! ’ ’ 

She  uttered  her  request  to  deadened  ears.  Lionel  neither 
moved  nor  answered.  His  whole  attention  was  given  to 
Ralph,  across  whose  hollow  features  a smile  of  calm  indiffer- 
ence passed,  which  denoted  how  little  he  regarded  the  threat- 
ened violence.  Even  Cecil,  who  clung  to  the  arm  of  Lionel, 
with  all  a woman’s  dependence  on  him  she  loved,  was  un- 
noticed by  the  latter,  in  the  absorbing  interest  he  took  in  the 
sudden  reappearance  of  one  whose  singular  and  mysterious 
character  had,  long  since,  raised  such  hopes  and  fears  in  his 
own  bosom. 

“ Your  doors  will  shortly  be  open  to  all  who  may  choose 
to  visit  here,”  the  old  man  coldly  answered.  “ Why  should 
I be  driven  from  a dwelling  where  heartless  crowds  shall  so 
soon  enter  and  depart  at  will  ? Am  I not  old  enough  ; or 
do  I not  bear  enough  of  the  aspect  of  the  grave,  to  become 
your  companion  ? Priscilla  Lechmere,  you  have  lived  till 
the  bloom  of  your  cheeks  has  given  place  to  the  color  of 
the  dead  ; your  dimples  have  become  furrowed  and  wrinkled 
lines,  and  the  beams  of  your  once  bright  eye  have  altered 
to  the  dull  look  of  care — but  you  have  not  yet  lived  for 
repentance.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ What  manner  of  language  is  this  ? ’ ’ cried  his  wondering 
listener,  inwardly  shrinking  before  his  steady,  but  glowing 
look.  4 'Why  am  I singled  from  the  world  for  this  persecu- 
tion ? Are  my  sins  past  bearing  ; or  am  I alone  to  be  re-  ; 
minded  that  sooner  or  later  age  and  death  will  come  ? I 
have  long  known  the  infirmities  of  life,  and  may  truly  say 
that  I am  prepared  for  their  final  consequences.” 

“’Tis  well,”  returned  the  unmoved  and  apparently  im- 
movable intruder.  “ Take,  then,  and  read  the  solemn  de- 
cree of  thy  God  ; and  may  He  grant  thee  firmness  to  justify 
so  much  confidence.  ’ ’ 

As  he  spoke,  he  extended  in  his  withered  hand  an  open 
letter  towards  Mrs.  Lechmere,  which  the  quick  glance  of 
Lionel  told  him  bore  his  own  name  in  the  superscription. 
Notwithstanding  the  gross  invasion  of  his  rights,  the  young 
man  was  passive  under  the  detection  of  this  second  and 


%ioncl  Xincoln 


293 


gross  interference  of  the  other  in  his  most  secret  matters, 
watching  with  eager  interest  the  effect  the  strange  communi- 
cation would  produce  on  his  aunt. 

Mrs.  L,echmere  took  the  letter  from  the  stranger  with  a 
sort  of  charmed  submission,  which  denoted  how  completely 
his  solemn  manner  had  bent  her  to  his  will.  The  instant 
her  look  fell  on  the  contents,  it  became  fixed  and  wild. 
The  note  was,  however,  short,  and  the  scrutiny  wras  soon 
ended.  Still,  she  grasped  it  with  an  extended  arm,  though 
the  vacant  expression  of  her  countenance  betrayed  that  it 
was  held  before  an  insensible  eye.  A moment  of  silent 
and  breathless  wonder  followed.  It  was  succeeded  by  a 
shudder  which  passed  through  the  whole  frame  of  the 
invalid,  her  limbs  shaking  violently,  until  the  rattling  of  the 
folds  of  the  paper  was  audible  in  the  most  distant  corner  of 
the  apartment. 

“This  bears  my  name,”  cried  Lionel,  shocked  at  her 
emotions,  and  taking  the  paper  from  her  unresisting  hands, 

‘ ‘ and  should  first  have  met  my  eye.  ’ ’ 

“Aloud,  aloud,  dear  Ifionel  ! ” said  a faint  but  earnest 
whisper  at  his  elbow  ; “ aloud,  I implore  you,  aloud  ! ” 

It  was  not,  perhaps,  so  much  in  compliance  with  this 
affecting  appeal,  in  which  the  whole  soul  of  Cecil  seemed 
wrapped,  as  by  yielding  to  the  overwhelming  flow  of  that 
excitement  to  which  he  had  been  aroused,  that  Major 
Lincoln  was  led  to  conform  to  her  request.  In  a voice 
rendered  desperately  calm  by  his  emotions,  he  uttered  the 
fatal  contents  of  the  note,  in  tones  so  distinct  that  they 
sounded  to  his  wife,  in  the  stillness  of  the  place,  like  the 
prophetic  warnings  of  one  from  the  dead  : — 

‘ ‘ The  state  of  the  town  has  prevented  that  close  attention 
to  the  case  of  Mrs.  Techmere,  which  her  injuries  rendered 
necessary.  An  inward  mortification  has  taken  place,  and 
her  present  ease  is  only  the  forerunner  of  her  death.  I 
feel  it  my  duty  to  say,  that  though  she  may  live  many 
hours,  it  is  not  improbable  that  she  will  die  to-night.” 

To  this  short  but  terrible  annunciation,  was  placed  the 
well-known  signature  of  the  attending  physician.  Here 


294 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


was  a sudden  change,  indeed  ! All  had  thought  that  the 
disease  had  given  way,  when  it  seemed  it  had  been  preying 
insidiously  on  the  vitals  of  the  sick.  Dropping  the  note, 
Lionel  exclaimed  aloud,  in  the  suddenness  of  his  surprise, — 
“ Die  to-night ! This  is  an  unexpected  summons  indeed  ! 5 ’ 
The  miserable  woman,  after  the  first  nerveless  moment 
of  her  dismay,  turned  her  looks  anxiously  from  face  to  face, 
and  listened  intently  to  the  words  of  the  note,  as  they  fell 
from  the  lips  of  Lionel,  like  one  eager  to  detect  the  glim- 
merings of  hope,  in  the  alarmed  expression  of  their  coun- 
tenances. But  the  language  of  her  physician  was  too  plain, 
direct,  and  positive,  to  be  misunderstood  or  perverted.  Its 
very  coldness  gave  it  a terrific  character  of  truth. 

“ Do  you,  then,  credit  it?”  she  asked,  in  a voice  whose 
husky  tones  betrayed  but  too  plainly  her  abject  unwilling- 
ness to  be  assured.  “You!  Lionel  Lincoln,  whom  I had 
thought  my  friend  ? ’ ’ 

Lionel  turned  away  silently  from  the  sad  spectacle  of  her 
misery  ; but  Cecil  dropped  on  her  knees  at  the  bedside,  and 
clasping  her  hands,  she  elevated  them,  looking  like  a beau- 
tiful picture  of  pious  hope,  as  she  murmured, — 

“ He  is  no  friend,  dearest  grandmother,  who  would  lay 
flattery  to  a parting  soul ! But  there  is  a better  and  a 
safer  dependence  than  all  this  world  can  offer  ! ” 

“And  you,  too!”  cried  the  devoted  woman,  rousing 
herself  with  a strength  and  energy  that  would  seem  to  put 
the  professional  knowledge  of  her  medical  attendant  at 
defiance  ; “do  you  also  abandon  me ? you,  whom  I have 
watched  in  infancy,  nursed  in  suffering,  fondled  in  happi- 
ness, ay  ! and  reared  in  virtue — yes,  that  I can  say  boldly 
in  the  face  of  the  universe  ! — you,  whom  I have  brought  to 
this  honorable  marriage — would  you  repay  me  for  all,  by 
black  ingratitude  ? ’ * 

‘ ‘ My  grandmother  ! my  grandmother  ! talk  not  thus 
cruelly  to  your  child  ! — but  lean  on  the  Rock  of  Ages  for 
support,  even  as  I have  leaned  on  thee  ! ” 

“Away — away — weak,  foolish  child!  Excess  of  happi- 
ness has  maddened  thee  ! Come  hither,  my  son  ; let  us 
speak  of  Ravenscliffe,  the  proud  seat  of  our  ancestors ; and 


Xionel  Xfncoin 


295 


of  those  days  we  are  yet  to  pass  under  its  hospitable  roofs. 
The  silly  girl  thou  hast  wived  would  wish  to  frighten  me  ! ” 
Lionel  shuddered  with  inward  horror  while  he  listened 
to  the  forced  and  broken  intonations  of  her  voice,  as  she 
thus  uttered  the  lingering  wishes  of  her  nature.  He  turned 
again  from  the  view,  and,  for  a moment,  buried  his  face  in 
his  hands,  as  if  to  exclude  the  world  and  its  wickedness, 
together,  from  his  sight. 

“ My  grandmother,  look  not  so  wildly  at  us  ! ” continued 
the  gasping  Cecil;  ‘‘you  may  have  yet  hours,  nay,  days, 
before  you.  ’ ’ She  paused  an  instant  to  follow  the  unsettled 
and  hopeless  gaze  of  an  eye  that  gleamed  despairingly  on 
the  objects  of  the  room,  and  then,  with  a meek  dependence 
on  her  own  purity,  dropping  her  face  between  her  hands, 
she  cried  aloud  in  her  agony, — 

“ My  mother’s  mother ! would  that  I could  die  for  thee  ! ” 
“ Die  ! ” echoed  the  same  dissonant  voice  as  before,  from 
a throat  that  already  began  to  rattle  with  the  hastened  ap- 
proaches of  death;  “who  would  die  amid  the  festivities 
of  a bridal ! Away — leave  me  ! To  thy  closet,  and  thy 
knees,  if  thou  wilt — but  leave  me  ! ” 

She  watched,  with  bitter  resentment,  the  retiring  form  of 
Cecil,  who  obeyed  with  the  charitable  and  pious  intention 
of  complying  literally  with  her  grandmother’s  order,  before 
she  added, — 

“ The  girl  is  not  equal  to  the  task  I had  set  her  ! All  of 
my  race  have  been  weak,  but  I — my  daughter — my  hus- 
band’s niece — ” 

“ What  of  that  niece?  ” said  the  startling  voice  of  Ralph, 
interrupting  the  diseased  wanderings  of  her  mind,  ‘ ‘ that 
wife  of  thy  nephew — the  mother  of  this  youth?  Speak, 
woman,  while  time  and  reason  are  granted  thee.’’ 

Lionel  now  advanced  to  her  bedside,  under  an  impulse  that 
he  could  no  longer  subdue,  and  addressed  her  solemnly, — 

‘ ‘ If  thou  knowest  aught  of  the  dreadful  calamity  that  has 
befallen  my  family,”  he  said,  “ or  in  any  manner  hast  been 
accessary  to  its  cause,  disburden  thy  soul,  and  die  in  peace. 
Sister  of  my  grandfather  ! nay,  more,  mother  of  my  wife, 
I conjure  thee,  speak — what  of  my  injured  mother  ? ” 


296 


Xtonel  Xlncoln 


“Sister  of  thy  grandfather — mother  of  thy  wife,”  re- 
peated Mrs.  L,echmere,  slowly,  and  in  a manner  that  suffi- 
ciently indicated  the  unsettled  state  of  her  thoughts.  “ Yes, 
both  are  true  ! ” 

‘ 4 Speak  to  me,  then,  of  my  mother,  if  you  acknowledge 
the  ties  of  blood— tell  me  of  her  dark  fate  ! ’ 5 

‘ ‘ She  is  in  her  grave  — dead  — rotten  — yes  — yes  — her 
boasted  beauty  has  been  fed  upon  by  beastly  worms  ! What 
more  would  ye  have,  mad  boy?  Wouldst  wish  to  see  her 
bones  in  their  winding-sheet  ? * ’ 

“ The  truth  ! ” cried  Ralph  ; “ declare  the  truth,  and  thy 
own  wicked  agency  in  the  deed  ! ’ ’ 

“Who  speaks?”  repeated  Mrs.  Techmere,  dropping  her 
voice  from  its  notes  of  high  excitement  again  to  the  trem- 
ulous cadency  of  debility  and  age,  and  looking  about  her  at 
the  same  time,  as  if  a sudden  remembrance  had  crossed  her 
brain  ; ‘ ‘ surely  I heard  sounds  I should  know  ! ’ ’ 

“ Here  ; look  on  me  ; fix  thy  wandering  eye,  if  it  yet  has 
power  to  see,  on  me,”  cried  Ralph,  aloud,  as  though  he 
would  command  her  attention  at  every  hazard  ; “ ’t  is  I that 
speak  to  thee,  Priscilla  Rechmere.” 

‘ ‘ What  wouldst  thou  have  ? My  daughter  ? She  is  in 
her  grave  ! Her  child  ? She  is  wedded  to  another.  Thou 
art  too  late  ! Thou  art  too  late  ! Would  to  God  thou  hadst 
asked  her  of  me  in  season — ’ ’ 

“The  truth,  the  truth,  the  truth!”  continued  the  old 
man,  in  a voice  that  rung  through  the  apartment  in  wild 
and  startling  echoes  ; ‘ ‘ the  holy  and  undefiled  truth  ? Give 
us  that,  and  naught  else.” 

This  singular  and  solemn  appeal  awakened  the  latest 
energies  of  the  despairing  woman,  whose  inmost  soul  ap- 
peared to  recoil  before  his  cries.  She  made  an  effort  to  raise 
herself  once  more,  and  exclaimed, — 

‘ ‘ Who  says  that  I am  dying  ? I am  but  seventy  ! and 
"t is  only  yesterday  I was  a child;  a pure,  and  uncontami- 
nated child  ! He  lies,  he  lies  ! I have  no  mortification ; I 
am  strong,  and  have  years  to  live  and  repent  in.” 

In  the  pauses  of  her  utterance,  the  voice  of  the  old  man 
was  still  heard  shouting, — 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


297 


* ‘ The  truth — the  truth  ; the  holy,  undefiled  truth  ! ’ ’ 

“ Let  me  rise  and  look  upon  the  sun,”  continued  the  dy- 
ing woman.  “Where  are  ye  all?  Cecil,  Lionel,  my  chil- 
dren, do  ye  desert  me  now  ? Why  do  ye  darken  the  room  ? 
Give  me  light, — more  light, — more  light  ! for  the  sake  of  all 
in  heaven  and  earth,  abandon  me  not  to  this  black  and  ter- 
rible darkness  ! ’ ’ 

Her  aspect  had  become  so  hideously  despairing,  that  the 
voice  of  even  Ralph  was  stilled,  and  she  continued  uninter- 
ruptedly to  shriek  out  the  ravings  of  her  soul. 

‘ ‘ Why  talk  to  such  as  I of  death  ? My  time  has  been  too 
short ! give  me  days, — give  me  hours, — give  me  moments  ! 
Cecil,— Agnes, — Abigail;  where  are  ye?  help  me,  or  I 
fall  ! ” 

She  raised  herself,  by  a desperate  effort,  from  the  pillows, 
and  clutched  wildly  at  the  empty  air.  Meeting  the  extended 
hand  of  Lionel,  she  caught  it  with  a dying  grasp,  gave  a 
ghastly  smile,  under  the  false  security  it  imparted,  and  fall- 
ing backward  again,  her  mortal  part  settled,  with  a universal 
shudder,  into  a state  of  eternal  rest. 

As  the  horrid  exclamations  of  the  deceased  ended,  so  deep 
a stillness  succeeded  in  the  apartment,  that  the  passing  gusts 
of  the  gale  were  heard  sighing  among  the  roofs  of  the  town, 
and  might  easily  be  mistaken,  at  such  a moment,  for  the 
moanings  of  unembodied  spirits  over  so  accursed  an  end. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

“ I wonder,  sir,  since  wives  are  monstrous  to  you, 

And  that  you  fly  them,  as  you  swear  them,  lordship, 

Yet,  you  desire  to  marry.’ * 

All 's  Well  that  Ends  Well. 

CECIL  had  left  the  room  of  her  grandmother  with  the 
consciousness  of  sustaining  a load  of  anguish,  to 
which  her  young  experience  had  hitherto  left  her  a 
stranger.  On  her  knees,  and  in  the  privacy  of  her 
closet,  she  poured  out  the  aspirations  of  her  pure  spirit,  in  fer- 
vent petitions  to  that  Power  which  she  who  most  needed  its 
support  had  so  long  braved,  by  the  mockery  of  respect,  and 
the  seemliness  of  devotion.  With  her  soul  elevated  by  its 
recent  communion  with  her  God,  and  her  feelings  soothed 
even  to  calmness  by  the  sacred  glow  that  was  shed  around 
them,  the  youthful  bride  at  length  prepared  to  resume  her 
post  at  the  bedside  of  her  aged  relative. 

In  passing  from  her  own  room  to  that  of  Mrs.  Lechmere, 
she  heard  the  busy  voice  of  Agnes  below,  together  with  the 
sounds  of  the  preparations  that  were  making  to  grace  her 
own  hasty  bridal,  and  for  a moment  she  paused,  to  assure 
herself  that  all  which  had  so  recently  passed  was  more  than 
the  workings  of  a disturbed  fancy.  She  gazed  at  the  un- 
usual, though  modest  ornaments  of  her  attire  ; shuddered  as 
she  remembered  the  awful  omen  of  the  shadow ; and  then 
came  to  the  dreadful  reality  with  an  overwhelming  convic- 
tion of  its  truth.  After  laying  her  hand  on  the  door,  she 
paused,  with  secret  terror,  to  catch  the  sounds  that  might 
issue  from  the  chamber  of  the  sick.  After  listening  a mo- 
ment, the  bustle  below  was  hushed,  and  she,  too,  heard  the 


Xtonel  Xlncoln 


299 


whistling  of  the  wind,  as  its  echoes  died  away  among  the 
chimneys  and  angles  of  the  building.  Encouraged  by  the 
death-like  stillness  of  those  within  her  grandmother’s  room, 
Cecil  now  opened  the  door,  under  the  pleasing  impression 
that  she  should  find  the  resignation  of  a Christian,  where  she 
had  so  lately  witnessed  the  incipient  ravings  of  despair.  Her 
entrance  was  timid  ; for  she  dreaded  to  meet  the  hollow, 
but  glaring  eye  of  the  nameless  being  who  had  borne  the 
message  of  the  physician,  and  of  whose  mien  and  lan- 
guage she  retained  a confused  but  fearful  recollection.  Her 
hesitation  and  her  fears  were,  however,  alike  vain  ; for  the 
room  was  silent  and  tenantless.  Casting  one  wondering 
look  around,  in  quest  of  the  form  most  dear  to  her,  Cecil  ad- 
vanced with  a light  step  to  the  bed,  and  raising  the  coverlet, 
discovered  the  fatal  truth  at  a glance. 

The  lineaments  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  had  already  stiffened, 
and  assumed  that  cadaverous  and  ghastly  expression  which 
marks  the  touch  of  death.  The  parting  soul  had  left  the  im- 
pression of  its  agony  on  her  features,  exhibiting  the  wreck 
of  those  passions  which  caused  her,  even  in  death,  to  look 
backward  on  that  world  she  was  leaving  forever,  instead  of 
forward  to  the  unknown  existence,  towards  which  she  was 
hurried.  Perhaps  the  suddenness,  and  the  very  weight  of 
the  shock,  sustained  the  cheerless  bride  in  that  moment  of 
trial.  She  neither  spoke  nor  moved  for  more  than  a minute  ; 
but  remained  with  her  eyes  riveted  on  the  desolation  of  that 
countenance  she  had  revered  from  her  infancy,  with  a species 
of  holy  awe  that  was  not  entirely  free  from  horror.  Then 
came  the  recollection  of  the  portentous  omens  of  her  wedding, 
and  with  it  a dread  that  the  heaviest  of  her  misfortunes  were 
yet  in  reserve.  She  dropped  the  covering  on  the  pallid  fea- 
tures of  the  dead,  and  quitted  the  apartment  with  a hurried 
step.  The  room  of  Eionel  was  on  the  same  floor  with  that 
which  she  had  just  left,  and  before  she  had  time  for  reflec- 
tion, her  hand  was  on  its  lock.  Her  brain  was  bewildered 
with  the  rush  of  circumstances.  For  a single  instant  she 
paused  with  maiden  bashfulness,  even  recoiling  in  sensitive 
shame  from  the  act  she  was  about  to  commit,  when  all  her 
fears,  mingled  with  glimmerings  of  the  truth,  flashed  again 


3°° 


%ioncl  ^Lincoln 


across  her  mind,  and  she  burst  into  the  room,  uttering  the 
name  of  him  she  sought,  aloud. 

The  brands  of  a fallen  fire  had  been  carefully  raked  to- 
gether, and  were  burning  with  a feeble  and  wavering  flame. 
The  room  seemed  filled  with  a cold  air,  which,  as  she 
encountered  it,  chilled  the  delicate  person  of  Cecil ; and 
flickering  shadows  were  playing  on  the  walls,  with  the  un- 
certain movements  imparted  by  the  unsteady  light.  But, 
like  the  apartment  of  the  dead,  the  room  was  still  and  empty. 
Perceiving  that  the  door  of  the  little  dressing-room  was 
open,  she  rushed  to  its  threshold,  and  the  mystery  of  the 
cold  air,  and  the  wavering  fire  was  explained,  when  she  felt 
the  gusts  of  wind  rush  by  her  from  the  open  door  at  the  foot 
of  the  narrow  stairs.  If  Cecil  had  ever  been  required  to  ex- 
plain the  feelings  which  induced  her  to  descend,  or  the 
manner  in  which  it  was  effected,  she  would  have  been  unable 
to  comply  ; for,  quick  as  thought,  she  stood  on  the  threshold 
of  the  outer  door,  nearly  unconscious  of  her  situation. 

The  moon  was  still  wading  among  the  driving  clouds, 
shedding  just  light  enough  to  make  the  spectator  sensible 
of  the  stillness  of  the  camp  and  town.  The  easterly  wind 
yet  howled  along  the  streets,  occasionally  lifting  whirlwinds 
of  snow,  and  wrapping  whole  squares  in  its  dim  wreaths. 
But  neither  man  nor  beast  was  visible  amid  the  dreariness. 

The  bewildered  bride  shrunk  from  the  dismal  view,  with 
a keen  perception  of  its  wild  consonance  with  the  death  of 
her  grandmother.  In  another  moment  she  was  again  in 
the  room  above,  each  part  of  which  was  examined  with 
maddening  anxiety  for  the  person  of  her  husband.  But  her 
powers,  excited  and  unnatural  as  they  had  become,  could 
support  her  no  longer.  She  was  forced  to  yield  to  the  im- 
pression that  Lionel  had  deserted  her  in  the  most  trying 
moment,  and  it  was  not  strange  that  she  coupled  the  sin- 
ister omens  of  the  night  with  his  mysterious  absence. 
The  heart-stricken  girl  clasped  her  hands  in  anguish,  and 
shrieking  the  name  of  her  cousin,  sunk  on  the  floor  in  total 
insensibility. 

Agnes  was  busily  and  happily  employed  with  her  domes- 
tics, in  preparing  such  a display  of  the  wealth  of  the  Lech- 


Xlonel  Lincoln 


3ox 


meres  as  should  not  disgrace  her  cousin  in  the  eyes  of  her 
more  wealthy  lord  and  master.  The  piercing  cry,  however, 
notwithstanding  the  bustle  of  hurrying  servants,  and  the 
clatter  of  knives  and  plates,  penetrated  to  the  supper-room, 
stilling  each  movement,  and  blanching  every  cheek. 

“ ’T  is  my  name  ! ’ ’ said  Agnes ; ‘ ‘ who  is  it  calls  ? ’ ’ 

“If  it  was  possible ,”  returned  Meriton,  with  a suitable 
emphasis,  “that  Master  Lionel’s  bride  could  scream  so,  I 
should  say  it  was  my  lady’s  voice  ! ’’ 

“ ’Tis  Cecil — ’ t is  Cecil ! ” cried  Agnes,  darting  from  the 
room.  “ O,  I feared — I feared  these  hasty  nuptials  ! ” 

There  was  a general  rush  of  the  menials  into  the  cham- 
bers, when  the  fatal  truth  became  immediately  known  to 
the  whole  family.  The  lifeless  clay  of  Mrs.  Lechmere 
was  discovered  in  its  ghastly  deformity,  and,  to  all  but 
Agnes,  it  afforded  a sufficient  solution  of  the  situation  of 
the  bride. 

More  than  an  hour  passed  before  the  utmost  care  of  hei 
attendants  succeeded  in  restoring  Cecil  to  a state  in  which 
questions  might  avail  anything.  Then  her  cousin  took  ad- 
vantage of  the  temporary  absence  of  her  women,  to  mention 
the  name  of  her  husband.  Cecil  heard  her  with  sudden  joy  ; 
but  looking  about  the  room  wildly,  as  if  seeking  him  with 
her  eyes,  she  pressed  her  hands  upon  her  heart,  and  fell 
backward  in  that  state  of  insensibility  from  which  she  had 
just  been  roused.  No  part  of  this  expressive  evidence  of 
her  grief  was  lost  on  the  other,  who  left  the  room  the  instant 
her  care  had  succeeded  in  bringing  the  sufferer  once  more  tc 
her  recollection. 

Agnes  Danforth  had  never  regarded  her  aunt  with  that 
confiding  veneration  and  love  which  purified  the  affections  of 
the  granddaughter  of  the  deceased.  She  had  always  pos- 
sessed her  more  immediate  relatives,  from  whom  she  derived 
her  feelings  and  opinions,  nor  was  she  wanting  in  sufficient 
discernment  to  distinguish  the  cold  and  selfish  traits  that  had 
so  particularly  marked  the  character  of  Mrs.  Lechmere. 
She  had,  therefore,  consented  to  mortify  her  own  spirit,  and 
submit  to  the  privations  and  dangers  of  the  siege,  entirely 
from  a disinterested  attachment  to  her  cousin,  who,  without 


3°2 


Xionel  Xfncoln 


her  presence,  would  have  found  her  solitude  and  situation 
irksome. 

In  consequence  of  this  disposition  of  her  mind,  Agnes  was 
more  shocked  than  distressed  by  the  unexpected  death  that 
had  occurred.  Perhaps,  if  her  anxiety  had  been  less  roused 
in  behalf  of  Cecil,  she  might  have  retired  to  weep  over  the 
departure  of  one  she  had  known  so  long,  and  of  one,  also, 
that,  in  the  sincerity  of  her  heart,  she  believed  so  little  pre- 
pared for  the  mighty  change.  As  it  was,  however,  she  took 
her  way  calmly  to  the  parlor,  where  she  summoned  Meriton 
to  her  presence. 

When  the  valet  made  his  entrance,  she  assumed  the  ap- 
pearance of  a composure  that  was  far  from  her  feelings, 
and  desired  him  to  seek  his  master,  with  a request  that 
he  would  give  Miss  Danforth  a short  interview,  without 
delay.  During  the  time  Meriton  was  absent  on  this 
errand,  Agnes  endeavored  to  collect  her  thoughts  for  any 
emergency. 

Minute  passed  after  minute,  however,  and  the  valet  did 
not  return.  She  arose,  and  stepping  lightly  to  the  door, 
listened,  and  thought  she  heard  his  footsteps  moving  about 
in  the  more  distant  parts  of  the  building,  with  a quickness 
that  proved  he  conducted  the  search  in  good  faith.  At 
length  she  heard  them  nigher,  and  it  was  soon  certain  he 
was  on  his  return.  Agnes  seated  herself,  as  before,  and 
with  an  air  that  seemed  as  if  she  expected  to  receive  the 
master  instead  of  the  man.  Meriton,  however,  returned 
alone. 

“ Major  Lincoln,' ’ she  said,  “ you  desired  him  to  meet  me 
here  ? ’ ’ 

The  whole  countenance  of  Meriton  expressed  his  amaze- 
ment, as  he  answered,  -r— 

4 ‘ Lord  ! Miss  Agnus,  Master  Lionel  has  gone  out ! gone 
out  on  such  a night  ! and  what  is  more  remarkable,  he  has 
gone  out  without  his  mourning  ; though  the  dead  of  his  own 
blood  and  connections  lies  unburied  in  the  house  ! ’ 9 

Agnes  preserved  her  composure,  and  gladly  led  the  valet 
on  in  the  path  his  thoughts  had  taken,  in  order  to  come  at 
the  truth,  without  betraying  her  own  apprehensions. 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


3°3 


“ How  know  you,  Mr.  Meriton,  that  your  master  has  been 
so  far  forgetful  of  appearances  ? ’ ’ 

“ As  certain,  ma’am,  as  I know  that  he  wore  his  parade 
uniform  this  evening  when  he  left  the  house  the  first  time  ; 
though  little  did  I dream  his  honor  was  going  to  get  mar- 
ried ! If  he  has  n’t  gone  out  in  the  same  dress,  where  is  it? 
Besides,  ma’am,  his  last  mourning  is  under  lock,  and  here  is 
the  key  in  my  pocket.” 

“ ’T  is  singular  he  should  choose  such  an  hour,  as  well  as 
the  time  of  his  marriage,  to  absent  himself ! ” 

Meriton  had  long  learned  to  identify  all  his  interests  with 
those  of  his  master,  and  he  colored  highly  under  the  oblique 
imputation  that  he  thought  was  no  less  cast  on  Lionel’s 
gallantry,  than  on  his  sense  of  propriety  in  general. 

“Why,  Miss  Agnus,  you  will  please  remember,  ma’am,” 
he  answered,  “as  this  wedding  hasn’t  been  at  all  like  an 
English  wedding — nor  can  I say  that  it  is  altogether  usual 
to  die  in  England  as  suddenly  as  Ma’am  Eechmere  has  been 
pleased — ’ ’ 

“ Perhaps,”  interrupted  Agnes,  “ some  accident  may  have 
happened  to  him.  Surely  no  man  of  common  humanity 
would  willingly  be  away  at  such  a moment.” 

The  feelings  of  Meriton  now  took  another  direction,  and 
he  unhesitatingly  adopted  the  worst  apprehensions  of  the 
young  lady. 

Agnes  leaned  her  forehead  on  her  hand  for  a minute  in 
deep  reflection  before  she  spoke  again,  then,  raising  her  eyes 
to  the  valet,  she  said, — 

‘ ‘ Mr.  Meriton,  know  you  where  Captain  Polwarth  sleeps  ? ’ ’ 

“ Certainly,  ma’am  ! He  ’s  a gentleman  as  always  sleeps 
in  his  own  bed,  unless  the  king’s  service  calls  him  elsewhere. 
A considerate  gentleman  is  Captain  Polwarth,  ma’am,  in 
respect  of  himself.” 

Miss  Danforth  bit  her  lip,  and  her  playful  eye  lighted  for 
an  instant,  with  a ray  that  banished  its  look  of  sadness  ; but 
in  another  moment  her  features  became  demure,  if  not  mel- 
ancholy, and  she  continued, — 

“ I believe,  then, — ’t  is  awkward  and  distressing,  too,  but 
nothing  better  can  be  done.” 


3°4 


^Lionel  Xtncoln 


“ Did  you  please  to  give  me  any  orders,  Miss  Agnus  ? ” 
‘‘Yes,  Meriton  ; you  will  go  to  the  lodgings  of  Captain 
Polwarth,  and  tell  him  Mrs.  Lincoln  desires  his  immediate 
presence  here,  in  Tremont  Street.’ ’ 

“ My  lady!”  repeated  the  amazed  valet;  “why,  Miss 
Agnus,  the  woman  says  as  my  lady  is  unconscionable,  and 
does  not  know  what  is  doing,  or  who  speaks  to  her  ! A 
mournful  wedding,  ma’am,  for  the  heir  of  our  house  ! ” 

“ Then  tell  him,”  said  Agnes,  as  she  arose  to  leave  the 
room,  “ that  Miss  Danforth  would  be  glad  to  see  him.” 
Meriton  waited  no  longer  than  was  necessary  to  mutter 
his  approbation  of  this  alteration  in  the  message,  when  he 
left  the  house,  with  a pace  that  was  a good  deal  quickened 
by  his  growing  fears  on  the  subject  of  his  master’s  safety. 
Notwithstanding  his  apprehensions,  the  valet  was  by  no 
means  insensible  to  the  severity  of  the  climate  he  was  in, 
nor  to  the  peculiar  qualities  of  that  night,  in  which  he  was 
so  unexpectedly  thrust  abroad  to  encounter  its  fury.  He 
soon  succeeded,  however,  in  making  his  way  to  the  quarters 
of  Polwarth,  in  the  midst  of  the  driving  snow,  and  in  defi- 
ance of  the  cold  that  chilled  his  very  bones.  Happily  for 
the  patience  of  the  worthy  valet,  Shearflint,  the  semi-mili- 
tary attendant  of  the  captain,  was  yet  up,  having  just  dis- 
charged his  nightly  duties  about  the  person  of  his  master, 
who  had  not  deemed  it  prudent  to  seek  his  pillow  without 
proving  the  consolations  of  the  trencher.  The  door  was 
opened  at  the  first  tap  of  Meriton,  and  when  the  other  had 
expressed  his  surprise  by  the  usual  exclamations,  the  two 
attendants  adjourned  to  the  sitting-room,  where  the  embers 
of  a good  wood  fire  were  yet  shedding  a grateful  heat  in  the 
apartment. 

“What  a shocking  country  is  this  America  for  cold,  Mr. 
Shearflint  ! ’ ’ said  Meriton,  kicking  the  brands  together  with 
his  boots,  and  rubbing  his  hands  over  the  coals.  “ I does  n’t 
think  as  our  English  cold  is  at  all  like  it.  It ’s  a stronger 
and  a better  cold,  is  ours,  but  it  doesn’t  cut  one  like  dull 
razors,  as  this  here  of  America.” 

Shearflint,  who  fancied  himself  particularly  liberal,  and 
ever  made  it  a point  to  show  his  magnanimity  to  his  ene- 


Lionel  ^Lincoln 


305 


mies,  never  speaking  of  the  colonists  without  a sort  of  pro- 
tecting air,  that  he  intended  should  reflect  largely  on  his 
own  candor,  briskly  replied, — 

“ This  is  a new  country,  Mr.  Meriton,  and  one  shouldn’t 
be  over-nice.  When  one  goes  abroad,  one  must  learn  to  put 
up  with  difficulties  ; especially  in  the  colonies,  where  it  can’t 
be  expected  all  things  should  be  as  comfortable  as  we  has 
’em  at  ’ome.” 

“ Well,  now,  I call  myself  as  little  particular  in  respect  of 
weather,”  returned  Meriton,  “ as  any  going.  But  give  me 
England  for  climate,  if  for  nothing  else.  The  water  comes 
down  in  that  blessed  country  in  good,  honest  drops,  and  not 
in  little  frozen  bits,  which  prick  one’s  face  like  so  many  fine 
needles  ! ’ ’ 

“ You  do  look,  Mr  Meriton,  a little  as  if  you  had  been 
shaking  your  master’s  powder  puff  about  your  own  ears. 
But  I was  just  finishing  the  heel-tap  of  the  captain’s  hot 
toddy  ; perhaps  if  you  was  to  taste  it,  ’t  would  help  to  thaw 
out  the  idears.” 

‘ ‘ God  bless  me,  Shearflint ! ’ ’ said  Meriton,  relinquishing 
his  grasp  of  the  tankard,  to  take  breath  after  a most  vigor- 
ous draught ; ‘ ‘ do  you  always  stuff  his  night-cap  so  thick  ? ’ ’ 
“ No,  no  ; the  captain  can  tell  a mixture  by  his  nose,  and 
it  doesn’t  do  to  make  partial  alterations  in  his  glass,”  re- 
turned Shearflint,  giving  the  tankard  a circular  motion  to 
stir  its  contents,  while  he  spoke,  and  swallowing  the  trifle 
that  remained,  apparently  at  a gulp.  “ Then,  as  I thinks 
it  a pity  that  anything  should  be  wasted  in  these  distressing 
times,  I generally  drinks  what  ’s  left,  after  adding  sum’ at  to 
the  water,  just  to  mellow  it  down.  But  what  brings  you 
abroad  such  a foul  night,  Mr.  Meriton  ? ’ ’ 

“Sure  enough,  my  idears  wanted  thawing,  as  you  insti- 
gated, Shearflint  ! Here  have  I been  sent  on  a message  of 
life  and  death,  and  I was  forgetting  my  errand  like  a raw 
boy  just  hired  from  the  country  ! ” 

‘ ‘ Something  is  stirring,  then  ! ’ ’ said  the  other,  offering  a 
chair,  which  his  companion  received,  without  any  words, 
while  Polwarth’s  man  took  another,  with  equal  composure. 

“ I thought  as  much,  from  the  captain’s  hungry  appearance, 
20 


jo6 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


when  he  came  home  to-night,  after  dressing  himself  with  so 
much  care,  to  take  his  supper  in  Tremont  Street. ’ 9 

“ Something  has  been  stirring,  indeed  ! For  one  thing,  it 
is  certain,  Master  Lionel  was  married  to-night,  in  the  King’s 
Chapel ! ” 

“ Married  ! ” echoed  the  other.  “ Well,  thank  Heaven, 
no  such  unavoidables  has  befallen  us,  though  we  have  been 
amputrated.  I couldn’t  live  with  a married  gentleman,  no 
how,  Mr.  Meriton.  A master  in  breeches  is  enough  for  me, 
without  one  in  petticoats  to  set  him  on  ! ” 

“That  depends  altogether  on  people’s  conditions,  Shear- 
flint,”  returned  Meriton,  with  a sort  of  condescending  air  of 
condolence,  as  though  he  pitied  the  other’s  poverty.  “ It 
would  be  great  folly  for  a captain  of  foot,  that  is  nothing 
but  a captain  of  foot,  to  unite  in  Hymen.  But,  as  we  say  at 
Ravenscliffe  and  Soho,  Cupid  will  listen  to  the  siyths  of  the 
heir  of  a Devonshire  baronet,  with  fifteen  thousand  a year.” 
“ I never  heard  any  one  say  it  was  more  than  ten,”  inter- 
rupted the  other,  with  a strong  taint  of  ill-humor  in  his 
manner. 

“Not  more  than  ten  ! I can  count  ten  myself,  and  I am 
sure  there  must  be  some  that  I doesn’t  know  of.” 

“Well,  if  it  be  twenty,”  cried  Shearfiint,  rising,  and 
kicking  the  brands  among  the  ashes,  in  a manner  to  destroy 
all  the  cheerfulness  of  the  little  fire  that  remained,  “ it  won’t 
help  you  to  do  your  errand.  You  should  remember  that 
us  servants  of  poor  captains  have  nobody  to  help  us  with  our 
work,  and  want  our  natural  rest.  What ’s  your  pleasure, 
Mr.  Meriton  ? ’ ’ 

“To  see  your  master,  Mister  Shearfiint.” 

“That’s  impossibility  ! he’s  under  five  blankets,  and  I 
wouldn’t  lift  the  thinnest  of  them  for  a month’s  wages.” 

‘ ‘ Then  I shall  do  it  for  you,  because  speak  to  him  I must. 
Is  he  in  this  room  ? ” 

“ Ay,  you  ’ll  find  him  somewhere  there,  among  the  bed- 
clothes, ’ ’ returned  Shearfiint,  throwing  open  the  door  of  an 
adjoining  apartment,  secretly  hoping  Meriton  would  get  his 
head  broken  for  his  trouble,  as  he  removed  himself  out  of 
harm’s  way,  by  returning  to  the  fireplace. 


Xlonel  ^Lincoln 


307 


Meriton  was  compelled  to  give  the  captain  several  rough 
shakes  before  he  succeeded  in  rousing  him,  in  the  least,  from 
his  deep  slumbers.  Then,  indeed,  he  overheard  the  sleeper 
muttering, — 

“ A damned  foolish  business,  that  ! Had  we  made  proper 
use  of  our  limbs,  we  might  have  kept  them.  You  take  this 
man  to  be  your  husband, — better  for  worse, — richer  or 
poorer, — ha  ! who  are  you  rolling,  dog?  Have  you  no  re- 
gard to  digestion,  to  shake  a man  in  this  manner,  just  after 
eating  ? ’ ’ 

“ It ’s  I,  sir — Meriton.” 

“ And  what  the  devil  do  you  mean  by  this  liberty,  Mr.  I, 
or  Meriton,  or  whatever  you  call  yourself  ? ” 

“ I am  sent  for  you  in  a great  hurry,  sir  ; awful  things 
have  happened  to-night  up  in  Tremont — ’ ’ 

” Happened  ! ” repeated  Polwarth,  who  by  this  time  was 
thoroughly  awake;  ”1  know,  fellow,  that  your  master  is 
married  ; I gave  the  bride  away  myself.  I suppose  nothing 
else,  that  is  particularly  extraordinary,  has  happened  ? ’ 9 

“ O ! Lord,  yes,  sir  : my  lady  is  in  fainting-fits,  and  Master 
Lionel  has  gone,  God  knows  whither,  and  Madam  Lechmere 
is  dead  ! ’ ’ 

Meriton  had  not  concluded,  before  Polwarth  sprang  from 
his  bed  in  the  best  manner  he  was  able,  and  began  to  dress 
himself,  by  a sort  of  instinct,  though  without  any  definite 
object.  By  the  unfortunate  arrangement  of  Meriton’s  intel- 
ligence, he  supposed  the  death  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  to  be  in 
consequence  of  some  strange  and  mysterious  separation  of 
the  bride  from  her  husband,  and  his  busy  thoughts  did  not 
fail  to  recall  the  singular  interruption  of  the  nuptials,  so  often 
mentioned. 

“ And  Miss  Danforth,”  he  asked,  “ how  does  she  bear 
it?” 

“Like  a woman,  as  she  is,  and  a true  lady.  It  is  no  small 
thing  as  puts  Miss  Agnus  beside  herself,  sir  ! ” 

“ No,  that  it  is  not  ! she  is  much  more  apt  to  drive  others 
mad.” 

“ *T  was  she,  sir,  as  sent  me  to  desire  you  to  come  up  to 
Tremont  Street  without  any  delay.” 


308 


Xionel  Xfncolrt 


“ The  devil  it  was  ! Hand  me  that  boot,  my  good  fellow. 
One  boot,  thank  God,  is  sooner  put  on  than  two.  The  vest 
and  stock  next.  You,  Shearflint ! where  have  you  got  to, 
sirrah  ? Bring  me  my  leg  this  instant ! ’ ’ 

As  soon  as  his  own  man  heard  this  order,  he  made  his  ap- 
pearance ; and  as  he  was  much  more  conversant  with  the 
mystery  of  his  master’s  toilet  than  Meriton,  the  captain  was 
soon  equipped  for  his  sudden  expedition. 

During  the  time  he  was  dressing,  he  continued  to  put  hasty 
questions  to  Meriton,  concerning  the  cause  of  the  disturbance 
in  Tremont  Street,  the  answers  to  which  only  served  to 
throw  him  more  upon  the  ocean  of  uncertainty  than  ever. 
The  instant  he  was  clad,  he  wrapped  himself  in  his  cloak, 
and,  taking  the  arm  of  the  valet,  he  essayed  to  find  his  way 
through  the  tempest  to  the  spot  where  he  was  told  Agnes 
Danforth  awaited  his  appearance,  with  a chivalry  that,  in 
another  age,  and  under  different  circumstances,  would  have 
made  him  a hero. 


CHAPTER  XXV. 

“ Proud  lineage  ! now  how  little  thou  appearest ! ” 

Bi<air. 

Notwithstanding  the  unusual  alacrity  with 

which  Polwarth  obeyed  the  unexpected  summons 
of  the  capricious  being  whose  favor  he  had  so  long 
courted  with  so  little  apparent  success,  he  lin- 
gered in  his  steps  as  he  approached  near  enough  to  the  house 
in  Tremont  Street  to  witness  the  glancing  lights  which 
flitted  before  the  windows.  On  the  threshold  he  stopped, 
and  listened  to  the  opening  and  shutting  of  doors,  and  all 
those  marked  and  yet  stifled  sounds,  which  are  wont  to  suc- 
ceed a visit  of  the  grim  monarch  to  the  dwellings  of  the  sick. 
His  rap  was  unanswered,  and  he  was  compelled  to  order 
Meriton  to  show  him  into  the  little  parlor  where  he  had  so 
often  been  a guest,  under  more  propitious  circumstances. 
Here  he  found  Agnes  awaiting  his  appearance  with  a gravity, 
if  not  sadness  of  demeanor,  that  instantly  put  to  flight  cer- 
tain complimentary  effusions  with  which  the  captain  had  de- 
termined to  open  the  interview,  in  order  to  follow  up,  in  the 
true  temper  of  a soldier,  the  small  advantage  he  conceived 
he  had  obtained  in  the  good  opinion  of  his  mistress.  Alter- 
ing the  exulting  expression  of  his  features,  with  his  first 
glance  at  the  countenance  of  Miss  Danforth,  Polwarth  paid 
his  compliments  in  a manner  better  suited  to  the  state  of 
the  family,  and  desired  to  know  if  in  any  manner  he  could 
contribute  to  their  comfort  or  relief. 

‘ ‘ Death  has  been  among  us,  Captain  Polwarth, 5 ’ said  Agnes, 
“ and  his  visit  has,  indeed,  been  sudden  and  unexpected.  To 
add  to  our  embarrassment,  Major  Lincoln  is  missing  ! ” 


3io 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


As  she  concluded,  Agnes  fastened  her  eyes  on  the  face 
of  the  other,  as  though  she  would  require  an  explanation  of 
the  unaccountable  absence  of  the  bridegroom. 

‘ ‘ Lionel  Lincoln  is  not  a man  to  fly  because  death  ap- 
proaches,' ' returned  the  captain,  musing  ; “ and  less  should 
I suspect  him  of  deserting,  in  her  distress,  one  like  the  lovely 
creature  he  has  married.  Perhaps  he  has  gone  in  quest  of 
medical  aid  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ It  cannot  be.  I have  gathered  from  the  broken  sen- 
tences of  Cecil,  that  he,  and  some  third  person  to  me  un- 
known, were  last  with  my  aunt,  and  must  have  been  present 
at  her  death  ; for  the  face  was  covered.  I found  the  bride 
in  the  room  which  Lionel  has  lately  occupied — the  doors 
open,  and  with  indications  that  he  and  his  unknown  com- 
panion had  left  the  house  by  the  private  stairs  which  com- 
municate with  the  western  door.  As  my  cousin  speaks  but 
little,  all  other  clue  to  the  movements  of  her  husband  is  lost, 
unless  this  ornament,  which  I found  glittering  among  the 
embers  of  the  fire,  may  serve  for  such  a purpose.  It  is,  I 
believe  a soldier's  gorget." 

“It  is,  indeed;  and  it  would  seem  the  wearer  has  been 
in  some  jeopardy,  by  this  bullet-hole  through  its  centre. 
By  heavens! — 'tis  that  of  M’Fuse  ! Here  is  the  18th  en- 
graved ; and  I know  these  little  marks,  which  the  poor  fellow 
was  accustomed  to  make  on  it  at  every  battle  ; for  he  never 
failed  to  wear  the  bauble.  The  last  was  the  saddest  record 
of  them  all ! " 

“In  what  manner,  then,  could  it  be  conveyed  into  the 
apartment  of  Major  Lincoln  ? Is  it  possible  that — " 

“In  what  manner,  truly!  " interrupted  Polwarth,  rising 
in  his  agitation,  and  beginning  to  pace  the  room,  in 
the  best  manner  his  mutilated  condition  would  allow. 
4 ‘ Poor  Dennis  ! that  I should  find  such  a relic  of  thy 
end  at  last ! You  did  not  know  Dennis,  I believe.  He 
was  a man,  fair  Agnes,  every  way  adapted  by  nature  for 
a soldier.  His  was  the  form  of  Hercules  ! the  heart  of 
a lion,  and  the  digestion  of  an  ostrich  ! But  he  could 
not  master  this  cruel  lead  ! He  is  dead,  poor  fellow,  he  is 
dead  !" 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


317 


“ Still,  you  find  no  clue  in  the  gorget  by  which  to  trace 
the  living  ? ” demanded  Agnes. 

“Ha!”  exclaimed  Polwarth,  starting,  “I  think  I begin 
to  see  into  the  mystery  ! The  fellow  who  could  slay  the 
man  with  whom  he  had  eaten  and  drunk,  might  easily  rob 
the  dead  ! You  found  the  gorget  near  the  fire  of  Major 
Lincoln's  room,  say  you,  fair  Agnes?” 

“In  the  embers,  as  if  cast  there  for  concealment,  or 
dropped  in  some  sudden  strait.” 

“ I have  it — I have  it  ! ” returned  Polwarth,  striking  his 
hands  together,  and  speaking  through  his  teeth, — “ ’twas 
that  dog  who  murdered  him,  and  justice  shall  now  take  its 
swing  : fool  or  no  fool,  he  shall  be  hung  up  like  jerked  beef, 
to  dry  in  the  winds  of  heaven  ! ’ ’ 

“Of  whom  speak  you,  Polwarth,  with  that  threatening 
air?”  inquired  Agnes,  in  a soothing  voice,  of  which,  like 
the  rest  of  her  sex,  she  well  knew  not  only  the  power,  but 
when  to  exercise  it. 

“ Of  a canting,  hypocritical  miscreant,  who  is  called  Job 
Pray — a fellow  with  no  more  conscience  than  brains,  nor 
any  more  brains  than  honesty.  An  ungainly  villain  ; who 
will  eat  of  your  table  to-day,  and  put  the  same  knife  that 
administered  to  his  hunger  to  your  throat  to-morrow  ! It 
was  such  a dog  that  butchered  the  glory  of  Erin  ! ’ ’ 

“It  must  have  been  in  open  battle,  then,”  said  Agnes, 
“ for  though  wanting  in  reason,  Job  has  been  reared  in  the 
knowledge  of  good  and  evil.  The  child  must  be  strongly 
stamped  with  the  wrath  of  God,  indeed,  for  whom  some 
effort  is  not  made  by  a Boston  mother,  to  recover  his  part 
in  the  great  atonement.” 

“He,  then  is  an  exception;  for  surely  no  Christian 
will  join  you  in  the  great  natural  pursuit  of  eating 
at  one  moment,  and  turn  his  fangs  on  a comrade  at  the 
next.” 

“But  what  has  all  this  to  do  with  the  absent  bride- 
groom?” 

“ It  proves  that  Job  Pray  has  been  in  his  room  since  the 
fire  was  replenished,  or  some  other  than  you  would  have 
found  the  gorget.” 


312 


%ionc l ^Lincoln 


"It  proves  a singular  association,  truly,  between  Major 
Lincoln  and  the  simpleton,”  said  Agnes,  musing;  "but 
still  it  throws  no  light  on  his  disappearance.  ’T  was 
an  old  man  that  my  cousin  mentioned  in  her  unconnected 
sentences  ! ” 

" My  life  on  it,  fair  Agnes,  that  if  Major  Lincoln  has  left 
the  house  mysteriously  to-night,  it  is  under  the  guidance  of 
that  wretch  ! I have  known  them  together  in  council  more 
than  once,  before  this.” 

" Then,  if  he  be  weak  enough  to  forsake  such  a woman 
as  my  cousin,  at  the  instigation  of  a fool,  he  is  unworthy  of 
another  thought ! ’ ’ 

Agnes  colored  as  she  spoke,  and  turned  the  conversation 
with  a manner  that  denoted  how  deeply  she  resented  the 
slight  to  Cecil. 

The  peculiar  situation  of  the  town,  and  the  absence  of  all 
her  own  male  relatives,  soon  induced  Miss  Danforth  to  listen 
to  the  reiterated  offers  of  service  from  the  captain,  and 
finally  to  accept  them.  Their  conference  was  long  and 
confidential ; nor  did  Polwarth  retire  until  his  footsteps 
were  assisted  by  the  dull  light  of  the  approaching  day. 
When  he  left  the  house  to  return  to  his  own  quarters,  no 
tidings  had  been  heard  of  Lionel,  whose  intentional  absence 
was  now  so  certain,  that  the  captain  proceeded  to  give  his 
orders  for  the  funeral  of  the  deceased,  without  any  further 
delay.  He  had  canvassed  with  Agnes  the  propriety  of 
every  arrangement  so  fully,  that  he  was  at  no  loss  how  to 
conduct  himself.  It  had  been  determined  between  them 
that  the  state  of  the  siege,  as  well  as  certain  indications  of 
movements  which  were  already  making  in  the  garrison, 
rendered  it  inexpedient  to  delay  the  obsequies  a moment 
longer  than  was  required  by  the  unavoidable  preparations. 

Accordingly,  the  Lechmere  vault,  in  the  churchyard  of 
the  "King’s  Chapel,”  was  directed  to  be  opened,  and  the 
vain  trappings,  in  which  the  dead  are  usually  enshrouded, 
were  provided.  The  same  clergyman,  who  had  so  lately 
pronounced  the  nuptial  benediction  over  the  child,  was  now 
required  to  perform  the  last  melancholy  offices  of  the  church 
over  the  parent,  and  the  invitations  to  the  few  friends  of  the 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


313 


family  who  remained  in  the  place  were  duly  issued  in  suit- 
able form. 

By  the  time  the  sun  had  fallen  near  the  amphitheatre  of 
hills,  along  whose  crests  were,  here  and  there,  to  be  seen  the 
works  of  the  indefatigable  men  who  held  the  place  in  leag- 
uer, the  brief  preparations  for  the  interment  of  the  deceased 
were  completed.  The  prophetical  words  of  Ralph  were  now 
fulfilled,  and,  according  to  the  custom  of  the  province,  the 
doors  of  one  of  its  proudest  dwellings  were  thrown  open  for 
all  those  who  chose  to  enter  and  depart  at  will.  The  fu- 
neral train,  though  respectable,  was  far  from  extending  to 
that  display  of  solemn  countenances  which  Boston,  in  its 
peace  and  pride,  would  not  have  failed  to  exhibit  on  any  sim- 
ilar occasion.  A few  of  the  oldest  and  most  respected  of  the 
inhabitants,  who  were  distantly  connected  by  blood  or 
alliances  with  the  deceased,  attended ; but  there  had  been 
nothing  in  the  cold  and  selfish  character  of  Mrs.  Lechmere  to 
gather  the  poor  and  dependent  in  sorrowing  groups  around 
her  funeral  rites.  The  passage  of  the  body,  from  its  late 
dwelling  to  the  tomb,  was  quiet,  decent,  and  impressive,  but 
entirely  without  any  demonstrations  of  grief.  Cecil  had 
buried  herself  and  her  sorrows,  together,  in  the  privacy  of 
her  own  room,  and  none  of  the  more  distant  relatives  who 
had  collected,  male  or  female,  appeared  to  find  it  at  all  difficult 
to  restrain  their  feelings  within  the  bounds  of  the  most  rigid 
decorum. 

Dr.  Titurgy  received  the  body,  as  usual,  on  the  threshold 
of  the  sacred  edifice  and  the  same  solemn  and  affecting 
language  was  uttered  over  the  dead,  as  if  she  had  departed 
soothed  by  the  most  cheerful  visions  of  an  assured  faith. 
As  the  service  proceeded,  the  citizens  clustered  about  the 
coffin,  in  deep  attention,  in  admiration  of  the  unwonted 
tremor  and  solemnity  that  had  crept  into  the  voice  of  the 
priest. 

Among  this  little  collection  of  the  inhabitants  of  the  colony 
were  interspersed  a few  men  in  the  military  dress,  who, 
having  known  the  family  of  the  deceased  in  more  settled 
times,  had  not  forgotten  to  pay  the  last  tribute  to  the  memory 
of  one  of  its  dead. 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


314 


When  the  short  service  was  ended,  the  body  was  raised  on 
the  shoulders  of  the  attendants,  and  borne  into  the  yard,  to 
its  place  of  final  rest.  At  such  a funeral,  where  few 
mourned,  and  none  wept,  no  unnecessary  delay  would  be 
made  in  disposing  of  the  melancholy  relics  of  mortality.  In 
a very  few  moments,  the  narrow  tenement,  which  contained 
the  festering  remains  of  one  who  had  so  lately  harbored  such 
floods  of  human  passion,  was  lowered  from  the  light  of  day, 
and  the  body  was  left  to  moulder  by  the  side  of  those  who 
had  gone  before  to  the  darkness  of  the  tomb.  Perhaps, 
of  all  who  witnessed  the  descent  of  the  coffin,  Polwarth  alone, 
through  that  chain  of  sympathies  which  bound  him  to  the 
caprice  of  Agnes,  felt  any  emotion  at  all  in  consonance  with 
the  solemn  scene.  The  obsequies  of  the  dead  were,  like  the 
living  character  of  the  woman,  cold,  formal,  and  artificial. 
The  sexton  and  his  assistants  had  hardly  commenced  re- 
placing the  stone  which  covered  the  entrance  of  the  vault, 
when  a knot  of  elderly  men  set  the  example  of  desertion,  by 
moving  away  in  a body  from  the  spot.  As  they  picked 
their  footsteps  among  the  graves,  and  over  the  frozen 
ground  of  the  churchyard,  they  discoursed  idly  together 
of  the  fortunes  and  age  of  the  woman  of  whom  they  had 
now  taken  their  leave  forever.  The  curse  of  selfishness 
appeared  even  to  have  fallen  on  the  warning  which  so 
sudden  an  end  should  have  given  to  those  who  forgot  they 
tottered  on  the  brink  of  the  grave.  They  spoke  of  the 
deceased  as  of  one  who  had  failed  to  awaken  the  charities 
of  our  nature,  and  though  several  ventured  their  conjec- 
tures as  to  the  manner  in  which  she  had  disposed  of  her 
worldly  possessions,  not  one  remembered  to  lament  that  she 
had  continued  no  longer  to  enjoy  them.  From  this  theme 
they  soon  wandered  to  themselves,  and  the  whole  party 
quitted  the  churchyard  joking  each  other  on  the  inroads  of 
time,  each  man  attempting  to  ape  the  elastic  tread  of 
youth,  in  order  not  only  to  conceal  from  his  companions  the 
ravages  of  age,  but  with  a vain  desire  to  extend  the  artifice 
so  far,  if  possible,  as  to  deceive  himself. 

When  the  seniors  of  the  party  withdrew,  the  remainder  of 
the  spectators  did  not  hesitate  to  follow  ; and  in  a few  min- 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


315 


utes  Polwarth  found  himself  standing  before  the  vault,  with 
only  two  others  of  all  those  who  had  attended  the  body. 
The  captain,  who  had  been  at  no  little  expense  of  time  and 
trouble  to  maintain  the  decencies  which  became  a near  friend 
of  the  family  of  the  deceased  stood  a minute  longer,  to 
permit  these  lingering  followers  to  retire  also,  before  he 
turned  his  own  back  on  the  place  of  the  dead.  But  perceiv- 
ing they  both  maintained  their  posts,  in  silent  attention,  he 
raised  his  eyes,  more  curiously,  to  examine  who  these  loiter- 
ers might  be. 

The  one  nearest  to  himself  was  a man,  whose  dress  and 
air  bespoke  him  to  be  of  no  very  exalted  rank  in  life,  while 
the  other  was  a woman,  of  even  an  inferior  condition,  if  an 
opinion  might  be  formed  from  the  squalid  misery  that  was 
exhibited  in  her  attire.  A little  fatigued  with  the  arduous 
labors  of  the  day,  and  the  duties  of  the  unusual  office  he 
had  assumed,  the  worthy  captain  touched  his  hat  with  studied 
decorum,  and  said, — 

“ I thank  you,  good  people,  for  this  mark  of  respect  to 
the  memory  of  my  deceased  friend  ; but  as  we  have  per- 
formed all  that  can  now  be  done  in  her  behalf,  we  will 
retire.  ’ ’ 

Apparently  encouraged  by  the  easy  and  courteous  manner 
of  Polwarth,  the  man  approached  still  nigher,  and,  after 
bowing  with  much  respect,  ventured  to  say,— 

“ They  tell  me  ’t  is  the  funeral  of  Madam  Lechmere  that 
I have  witnessed  ? ’ 9 

“ They  tell  you  true,  sir,”  returned  the  captain,  beginning 
slowly  to  pick  his  way  towards  the  gate  ; “ of  Mrs.  Priscilla, 
the  relict  of  Mr.  John  Lechmere — a lady  of  a creditable 
descent,  and  I think  it  will  not  be  denied  that  she  has  had 
honorable  interment.” 

” If  it  be  the  lady  I suppose,”  continued  the  stranger,  “ she 
is  of  an  honorable  descent,  indeed.  Her  maiden  name  was 
Lincoln,  and  she  is  aunt  to  the  great  Devonshire  baronet  of 
that  family.” 

“How!  know  you  the  Lincolns?”  exclaimed  Polwarth, 
stopping  short,  and  turning  to  examine  the  other  with  a 
stricter  eye.  Perceiving,  however,  that  the  stranger  was  a 


3l6 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


man  of  harsh  and  peculiarly  forbidding  features,  in  the  vul- 
gar dress  already  mentioned,  he  muttered,  “ You  may  have 
heard  of  them,  friend,  but  I should  doubt  whether  your  inti- 
macy could  amount  to  such  wholesome  familiarities  as  eating 
and  drinking.” 

“ Stronger  intimacies  than  that,  sir,  are  sometimes  brought 
about  between  men  who  were  born  to  very  different  for- 
tunes,” returned  the  stranger,  with  a peculiarly  sarcastic 
and  ambiguous  smile,  which  meant  more  than  met  the  eye. 
“ But  all  who  know  the  Lincolns,  sir,  will  allow  their  claims 
to  distinction.  If  this  lady  was  one  of  them,  she  had  reason 
to  be  proud  of  her  blood.” 

“ Ay,  you  are  not  tainted,  I see,  with  these  revolutionary 
notions,  my  friend,  ’ ’ returned  Polwarth  : ‘ ‘ she  was  also  con- 
nected with  a very  good  sort  of  a family  in  this  colony, 
called  the  Danforths — you  know  the  Danforths  ? ’ ’ 

“ Not  at  all,  sir;  I—” 

“ Not  know  the  Danforths  ! ” exclaimed  Polwarth,  once 
more  stopping  to  bestow  a freer  scrutiny  on  his  companion. 
After  a short  pause,  however,  he  nodded  his  head,  in  appro- 
bation of  his  own  conclusions,  and  added,  “No,  no — I 
am  wrong — I see  you  could  not  have  known  much  of  the 
Danforths.  ’ ’ 

The  stranger  appeared  quite  willing  to  overlook  the  cav- 
alier treatment  he  received,  for  he  continued  to  attend  the 
difficult  footsteps  of  the  maimed  soldier,  with  the  same  re- 
spectful deference  as  before. 

“ I have  no  knowledge  of  the  Danforths,  it  is  true,”  he 
answered  ; ‘ ‘ but  I may  boast  of  some  intimacy  with  the  fam- 
ily of  Lincoln.” 

“Would  to  God,  then,”  cried  Polwarth,  in  a sort  of  solil- 
oquy, which  escaped  him  in  the  fulness  of  his  heart,  “ you 
could  tell  us  what  has  become  of  its  heir  ! ’ ’ 

The  stranger  stopped  short  in  his  turn,  and  exclaimed, — 

“ Is  he  not  serving  with  the  army  of  the  king,  against  this 
rebellion  ! Is  he  not  here  ? ’ ’ 

“ He  is  here,  or  he  is  there,  or  he  is  anywhere  : I tell  you 
he  is  lost.” 

“ He  is  lost  ! ” echoed  the  other. 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


317 


“Lost!”  repeated  a humble  female  voice,  at  the  very 
elbow  of  the  captain. 

The  singular  repetition  of  his  own  language  aroused  Pol- 
warth  from  the  abstraction  into  which  he  had  suffered  him- 
self to  fall.  In  his  course  from  the  vault  to  the  churchyard 
gate,  he  had  unconsciously  approached  the  woman  before 
mentioned,  and  when  he  turned  at  the  sounds  of  her  voice, 
his  eyes  fell  full  upon  her  anxious  countenance.  The  very 
first  glance  was  enough  to  tell  the  observant  captain  that, 
in  the  midst  of  her  poverty  and  rags,  he  saw  the  broken 
remains  of  great  female  beauty.  Her  dark  and  intelligent 
eyes,  set  as  they  were  in  a sallow  and  sunken  countenance, 
still  retained  much  of  the  brightness,  if  not  of  the  softness 
and  peace,  of  youth.  The  contour  of  her  face  was  also 
striking,  though  she  might  be  said  to  resemble  one  whose 
loveliness  had  long  since  departed  with  her  innocence.  But 
the  gallantry  of  Polwarth  was  proof  even  against  the  un- 
equivocal signs  of  misery,  if  not  of  guilt,  which  were  so  easily 
to  be  traced  in  her  appearance  ; and  he  too  much  respected 
even  the  remnants  of  female  charms  which  were  yet  visible 
amid  such  a mass  of  unseemliness,  to  regard  them  with  an 
unfriendly  eye.  Apparently  encouraged  by  the  kind  look 
of  the  captain,  the  woman  ventured  to  add, — 

“Did  I hear  aright,  sir?  Said  you  that  Major  Lincoln 
was  lost  ? ’ ’ 

“I  am  afraid,  good  woman,”  returned  the  captain,  leaning 
on  the  iron-shod  stick,  with  which  he  was  wont  to  protect 
his  footsteps  along  the  icy  streets  of  Boston,  ‘ ‘ that  this  siege 
has,  in  your  case,  proved  unusually  severe.  If  I am  not 
mistaken  in  a matter  in  which  I profess  to  know  much,  na- 
ture is  not  supported  as  nature  should  be.  You  would  ask 
for  food,  and  God  forbid  that  I should  deny  a fellow-creature 
a morsel  of  that  which  constitutes  both  the  seed  and  the 
fruits  of  life.  Here  is  money.  ’ ’ 

The  muscles  of  the  attenuated  countenance  of  the  woman 
worked  with  a sudden  convulsive  motion,  and,  for  a mo- 
ment, she  glanced  her  eyes  wistfully  towards  his  silver,  but 
a slight  flush  passing  quickly  over  her  pallid  features,  she 
answered, — 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


318 


“Whatever  may  be  my  wants  and  my  suffering,  I thank 
my  God  that  he  has  not  levelled  me  with  the  beggar  of  the 
streets.  Before  that  evil  day  shall  come,  may  I find  a place 
amongst  these  frozen  hillocks  where  we  stand  ! But  I beg 
pardon,  sir  : I thought  I heard  you  speak  of  Major  Lincoln.’ ’ 
“ I did  ; and  what  of  him  ? I said  he  was  lost  ; and  it  is 
true,  if  that  be  lost  which  cannot  be  found.” 

“ And  did  Madam  Lechmere  take  her  leave  before  he  was 
missing  ? ’ ’ asked  the  woman,  advancing  a step  nearer  to 
Polwarth,  in  her  intense  anxiety  to  be  answered. 

“ Do  you  think,  good  woman,  that  a gentleman  of  Major 
Lincoln’s  notion  of  things  would  disappear  after  the  decease 
of  his  relative,  and  leave  a comparative  stranger  to  fill  the 
office  of  principal  mourner  ? ’ ’ 

“ The  Lord  forgive  us  all  our  sins  and  wickedness!” 
muttered  the  woman,  drawing  the  shreds  of  her  tattered 
cloak  about  her  shivering  form,  and  hastening  silently  away 
into  the  depths  of  the  graveyard.  Polwarth  regarded  her 
unceremonious  departure  for  a moment  in  surprise,  and  then, 
turning  to  his  remaining  companion,  he  remarked, — 

“ That  woman  is  unsettled  in  her  reason,  for  the  want  of 
wholesome  nutriment.  It  is  just  as  impossible  to  retain  the 
powers  of  the  mind,  and  neglect  the  stomach,  as  it  is  to 
expect  a truant  boy  will  make  a learned  man.”  By  this 
time  the  worthy  captain  had  forgotten  whom  it  was  he  ad- 
dressed, and  he  continued,  in  his  usual  philosophic  strain  : 
“ Children  are  sent  to  school  to  learn  all  useful  inventions 
but  that  of  eating  ; for  to  eat — that  is,  to  eat  with  judgment 
— is  as  much  of  an  invention  as  any  other  discovery.  Every 
mouthful  a man  swallows  has  to  undergo  four  important 
operations,  each  of  which  may  be  called  a crisis  in  the  human 
constitution.  ’ ’ 

” Suffer  me  to  help  you  over  this  grave,”  said  the  other, 
officiously  offering  his  assistance. 

“I  thank  you,  sir,  I thank  you — ’tis  a sad  commentary 
on  my  words  ! ” returned  the  captain,  with  a melancholy 
smile.  ‘ ‘ The  time  has  been  when  I served  in  the  light 
corps,  but  your  men  in  unequal  quantities  are  good  for  little 
else  but  garrisons  ! As  I was  saying,  there  is  first,  the 


Xtonel  Xincoln 


3J9 


selection  ; second,  mastication  ; third,  deglutition ; and  lastly, 
the  digestion.” 

“Quite  true,  sir,”  said  the  stranger,  a little  abruptly; 
“ thin  diet  and  light  meals  are  best  for  the  brain.” 

‘ ‘ Thin  diet  and  light  meals,  sir,  are  good  for  nothing  but 
to  rear  dwarfs  and  idiots  ! ” returned  the  captain,  with  some 
heat ; “I  repeat  to  you,  sir — ” 

He  was  interrupted  by  the  stranger,  who  suddenly  smoth- 
ered a dissertation  on  the  connection  between  the  material 
and  immaterial,  by  asking, — 

‘ ‘ If  the  heir  of  such  a family  be  lost,  is  there  none  to  see 
that  he  is  found  again  ? ’ * 

Polwarth,  finding  himself  thus  checked  in  the  very  open- 
ing of  his  theme,  stopped  again,  and  stared  the  other  full  in 
the  face  for  a moment,  without  making  any  reply.  His 
kind  feeling,  however,  got  the  better  of  his  displeasure,  and 
yielding  to  the  interest  he  felt  in  the  fate  of  Lionel,  he 
answered, — 

“ I would  go  all  lengths,  and  incur  every  hazard,  to  do 
him  service.” 

“Then,  sir,  accident  has  brought  those  together  who  are 
willing  to  engage  in  the  same  undertaking.  I,  too,  will  do 
my  utmost  to  discover  him.  I have  heard  he  has  friends  in 
this  province.  Has  he  no  connection  to  whom  we  may  apply 
for  intelligence  ? ’ ’ 

“ None  nearer  than  a wife.” 

“ A wife  ! ” repeated  the  other,  in  surprise.  “Is  he,  then, 
married  ? ’ ' 

A long  pause  ensued,  during  which  the  stranger  mused 
deeply,  and  Polwarth  bestowed  a still  more  searching 
scrutiny  than  ever  on  his  companion.  It  would  appear 
that  the  result  was  not  satisfactory  to  the  captain ; for, 
shaking  his  head,  in  no  very  equivocal  manner,  he  resumed 
the  task  of  picking  his  way  among  the  graves,  towards  the 
gate,  with  renewed  diligence.  He  was  in  the  act  of  seating 
himself  in  the  pung,  when  the  stranger  again  stood  at  his 
elbow,  and  said,: — 

“ If  I knew  where  to  find  his  wife,  I would  offer  my 
services  to  the  lady.” 


320 


Xtonel  Xincoln 


Polwarth  pointed  to  the  building  of  which  Cecil  was  now 
the  mistress,  and  answered,  somewhat  superciliously,  as  he 
drove  away,- — 

“ She  is  there,  my  good  friend,  but  your  application  will 
be  useless.’ ’ 

The  stranger  received  the  direction  in  an  understanding 
manner,  and  smiled  with  satisfied  confidence,  while  he  took 
the  opposite  route  from  that  by  which  the  busy  equipage 
of  the  captain  had  already  disappeared. 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

“Up  Fish  Street  ! down  Saint  Magnus’  corner ! 

Kill  and  knock  down  ! Throw  them  into  Thames  ! 

What  noise  is  this  I hear  ? Dare  any  be  so  bold  to  sound 
Retreat  or  parley,  when  I command  them  kill  ?” 

King  Henry  IV. 

IT  was  rarely,  indeed,  that  the  equal-minded  Polwartfi 
undertook  an  adventure  with  so  fell  an  intent  as  was 
the  disposition  with  which  he  directed  the  head  of  the 
hunter  to  be  turned  towards  the  Dock  Square.  He  had 
long  known  the  residence  of  Job  Pray,  and  often,  in  passing 
from  his  lodgings  near  the  common,  into  the  more  fashion- 
able quarter  of  the  town,  the  good-natured  epicure  had 
turned  his  head  to  bestow  a nod  and  a smile  on  the  unsophis- 
ticated admirer  of  his  skill  in  the  culinary  art.  But  now,  as 
the  pung  whirled  out  of  Cornhill  into  the  well-known  area, 
his  eye  fell  on  the  low  and  gloomy  walls  of  the  warehouse, 
with  a far  less  amicable  design. 

From  the  time  he  was  apprised  of  the  disappearance  of  his 
friend,  the  captain  had  been  industriously  ruminating  on  the 
subject,  in  a vain  wish  to  discover  any  probable  reason  that 
might  induce  a bridegroom  to  adopt  so  hasty,  and,  appar- 
ently, so  unjustifiable  a step,  as  the  desertion  of  his  bride, 
and  that,  too,  under  circumstances  of  such  peculiar  distress. 
But  the  more  he  reasoned,  the  more  he  found  himself  in- 
volved in  the  labyrinth  of  perplexity,  until  he  was  glad  to 
seize  on  the  slightest  clue  which  offered,  to  lead  him  from 
his  obscurity.  It  has  already  been  seen  in  what  manner  he 
received  the  intelligence  conveyed  through  the  gorget  of 
M’Fuse,  and  it  now  remains  for  us  to  show  with  what  com- 
mendable ingenuity  he  improved  the  hint. 

ax 


322 


Xionel  Xincoln 


It  had  always  been  a matter  of  surprise  to  Polwarth,  that 
a man  like  Lionel  should  tolerate  so  much  of  the  society  of 
the  simpleton ; nor  had  it  escaped  his  observation,  that  the 
communications  between  the  two  were  a little  concealed 
under  a shade  of  mystery.  He  had  overheard  the  foolish 
boast  of  the  lad,  the  preceding  day,  relative  to  the  death  of 
M’Fuse  ; and  the  battered  ornament,  in  conjunction  with 
the  place  where  it  was  found,  which  accorded  so  well  with 
his  grovelling  habits,  had  tended  to  confirm  its  truth.  The 
love  of  Polwarth  for  the  grenadier  was  second  only  to  his 
attachment  for  his  earlier  friend.  The  one  had  avowedly 
fallen,  and  he  soon  began  to  suspect  that  the  other  had  been 
strangely  inveigled  from  his  duty  by  the  agency  of  this  ill- 
gifted  changeling.  To  conceive  an  opinion,  and  to  become 
confirmed  in  its  justice,  were  results  generally  produced  by 
the  same  operation  of  the  mind,  with  this  disciple  of  animal 
philosophy.  Whilst  he  stood  near  the  tomb  of  the  Lech- 
meres,  in  the  important  character  of  chief  mourner,  he  had 
diligently  revolved  in  his  mind  the  brief  arguments  which 
he  found  necessary  to  this  conclusion.  The  arrangement 
of  his  ideas  might  boast  of  the  terseness  of  a syllogism.  His 
proposition  and  inference  were  something  as  follows : Job 
murdered  M’Fuse  ; some  great  evil  has  occurred  to  Lionel, — 
and  therefore  Job  has  been  its  author. 

It  is  true,  there  was  a good  deal  of  intermediate  argument 
to  support  this  deduction,  at  which  the  captain  cast  an 
extremely  cursory  glance,  but  which  the  reader  may  easily 
conceive,  if  at  all  gifted  in  the  way  of  imagination.  It 
would  require  no  undue  belief  of  the  connection  between 
very  natural  effects  and  their  causes,  to  show  that  Polwarth 
was  not  entirely  unreasonable  in  suspecting  the  agency  of 
the  simpleton,  nor  in  harboring  the  deep  and  bitter  resent- 
ment that  so  much  mischief,  even  though  it  were  sustained 
from  the  hands  of  a fool,  was  likely  to  awaken.  Be  that  as 
it  may,  by  the  time  the  pung  had  reached  the  point  already 
mentioned,  its  rapid  motion,  which  accelerated  the  ordi- 
narily quiet  circulation  of  his  blood,  together  with  the  scene 
through  which  he  had  just  passed,  and  the  recollec- 
tions which  had  been  crowding  on  his  mind,  conspired 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


323 


to  wind  up  his  resolution  to  a very  obstinate  pitch  of  deter- 
mination. Of  all  his  schemes,  embracing,  as  they  did,  com- 
pulsion, confession,  and  punishment,  Job  Pray  was,  of 
course,  destined  to  be  both  the  subject  and  the  victim. 

The  shadows  of  evening  were  already  thrown  upon  the 
town,  and  the  cold  had  long  before  driven  the  few  dealers  in 
meats  and  vegetables,  who  continued  to  find  daily  employ- 
ment around  the  ill-furnished  shambles,  to  their  several 
homes.  In  their  stead,  there  was  only  to  be  seen  a meagre 
and  impoverished  follower  of  the  camp,  stealing  along  the 
shadows  of  the  building,  with  her  half-famished  child,  as 
they  searched  among  the  offals  of  the  market  for  some  neg- 
lected morsel,  to  eke  out  the  scanty  meal  of  the  night. 
But  while  the  common  mart  presented  this  appearance  of 
dulness  and  want,  the  loweP  part  of  the  square  exhibited  a 
very  different  aspect. 

The  warehouse  was  surrounded  by  a body  of  men  in 
uniform,  whose  disorderly  and  rapid  movements  proclaimed 
at  once,  to  the  experienced  eye  of  the  captain,  that  they 
were  engaged  in  a scene  of  lawless  violence.  Some  were 
rushing  furiously  into  the  building,  armed  with  such  weap- 
ons as  the  streets  first  offered  to  their  hands,  while  others 
returned,  filling  the  air  with  their  threats  and  outcries.  A 
constant  current  of  eager  soldiers  was  setting  out  of  the 
dark  passages  in  the  neighborhood  towards  the  place,  and 
every  window  of  the  building  was  crowded  with  excited 
witnesses,  who  clung  to  the  walls,  apparently  animating 
those  within  by  their  cheers  and  applause. 

When  Polwarth  bade  Shearflint  pull  the  reins,  he  caught 
the  quick,  half-formed  sentences  that  burst  from  the  rioters, 
and  even  before  he  was  able,  in  the  duskiness  of  the  evening, 
to  discover  the  facings  of  their  uniform,  his  ear  detected  the 
well-known  dialect  of  the  Royal  Irish.  The  whole  truth 
now  broke  upon  him  at  once,  and  throwing  his  obese  person 
from  the  sleigh,  in  the  best  manner  he  was  able,  he  hobbled 
into  the  throng,  with  a singular  compound  of  feeling, 
which  owed  its  birth  to  the  opposing  impulses  of  a thirst  for 
vengeance,  and  the  lingering  influence  of  his  natural  kind- 
ness. Better  men  than  the  captain  have,  however,  lost 


32  4 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


sight  of  their  humanity,  under  those  fierce  sympathies  that 
are  awakened  in  moments  of  tumult  and  violence.  By  the 
time  he  had  forced  his  person  into  the  large,  dark  apartment 
that  formed  the  main  building,  he  had,  in  a great 
degree  suffered  himself  to  be  worked  into  a sternness  of 
purpose,  which  comported  very  ill  with  his  intelligence  and 
rank.  He  even  listened  with  unaccountable  pleasure  to 
the  threats  and  denunciations  which  filled  the  building  ; until 
he  foresaw,  from  their  savage  nature,  there  was  great  dan- 
ger that  one  half  of  his  object,  the  discovery  of  Lionel, 
was  likely  to  be  frustrated  by  their  fulfilment.  Animated 
anew  by  this  impression,  he  threw  the  rioters  from  him  with 
prodigious  energy,  and  succeeded  in  gaining  a position 
where  he  might  become  a more  efficient  actor  in  the  fray. 

There  is  still  light  enough  to  discover  Job  Pray  placed 
in  the  centre  of  the  warehouse,  on  his  miserable  bed,  in  an 
attitude  between  lying  and  sitting.  While  his  bodily  condi- 
tion seemed  to  require  the  former  position,  his  fears  had  in- 
duced him  to  attempt  the  latter.  The  large,  red  blotches 
which  covered  his  unmeaning  countenance,  and  his  flushed 
eyeballs,  too  plainly  announced  that  the  unfortunate  young 
man,  in  addition  to  having  become  the  object  of  the  wrath 
of  a lawless  mob,  was  a prey  to  the  ravages  of  that  foul  dis- 
order which  had  long  before  lighted  on  the  town.  Around 
this  squalid  subject  of  poverty  and  disease,  a few  of  the  har- 
diest of  the  rioters,  chiefly  the  surviving  grenadiers  of  the 
1 8th,  had  gathered ; while  the  less  excited,  or  more  timid 
among  them,  practised  their  means  of  annoyance  at  a greater 
distance  from  the  malign  atmosphere  of  the  distemper.  The 
bruised  and  bloody  person  of  the  simpleton  manifested  how 
much  he  had  already  suffered  from  the  hands  of  his  torment- 
ors, who  happily  possessed  no  very  fatal  weapons,  or  the 
scene  would  have  been  much  earlier  terminated.  Notwith- 
standing his  great  bodily  debility,  and  the  pressing  dangers 
that  beset  him  on  every  side,  Job  continued  to  face  his  as- 
sailants, with  a sort  of  stupid  endurance  of  the  pains  they 
inflicted. 

At  the  sight  of  this  revolting  spectacle,  the  heart  of  Pol- 
warth  began  greatly  to  relent,  and  he  endeavored  to  make 


Xlonel  ^Lincoln 


32S 

himself  heard  in  the  clamor  of  fifty  voices.  But  his  presence 
was  unheeded,  for  the  remonstrances  were  uttered  to  ignorant 
men,  wildly  bent  on  vengeance. 

“Pul  the  baist  from  his  rags!”  cried  one;  “ ’tis  no  a 
human  man,  but  a divil’s  imp,  in  the  shape  of  a fellow* 
cratur  ! 9 ’ 

“ For  such  as  him  to  murder  the  flower  of  the  British 
army  ! ” said  another  ; “ his  small-pox  is  nothing  but  a foul 
invintion  of  the  ould  one,  to  save  him  from  his  daisarrev- 
ings  ! ” 

“Would  any  but  a divil  invint  such  a disorder  at  all?” 
interrupted  a third,  who,  even  in  his  anger,  could  not  forget 
his  humor.  “ Have  a care,  b’ys,  he  may  give  it  to  the 
whole  family  the  naat’ral  way,  to  save  the  charges  of  the 
inoculation  ? ’ 9 

“ Have  done  wid  yer  foolery,  Terence,”  returned  the  first ; 
‘ 1 would  ye  trifle  about  death,  and  his  unrevenged  ? Put  a 
coal  into  his  filth,  b’ys,  and  burren  it  and  him  in  the  same 
bonfire  ! ’ ’ 

“ A coal ! a coal  ! — a brand  for  the  divil’ s burning  ! ” 
echoed  twenty  soldiers,  eagerly  listening,  in  the  madness  of 
their  fury,  to  the  barbarous  advice. 

Polwarth  again  exerted  himself,  though  unsuccessfully,  to 
be  heard  ; nor  was  it  until  a dozen  voices  proclaimed,  in  dis- 
appointment, that  the  house  contained  neither  fire  nor  fuel, 
that  the  sudden  commotion  in  the  least  subsided. 

“Out  of  the  way  ! out  of  the  way  wid  ye  ! ” roared  one  of 
gigantic  mould,  whose  heavy  nature  had,  like  an  overcharged 
volcano,  been  slowly  wrought  up  to  the  eve  of  a fearful 
eruption  ; ‘ ‘ here  is  fire  to  destroy  a salamander ! Be  he 
divil  or  be  he  saint,  he  has  great  need  of  his  prayers  ! ” 

As  he  spoke,  the  fellow  levelled  a musket,  and  another 
instant  would  have  decided  the  fate  of  Job,  who  cowered 
before  the  danger  with  instinctive  dread,  had  not  Polwarth 
beat  up  the  piece  with  his  cane,  and  interposed  his  body 
between  them. 

“ Hold  your -fire,  brave  grenadier,”  he  said,  warily  adopt- 
ing a middle  course  between  the  language  of  authority  and 
that  of  counsel.  “This  is  hasty  and  unsoldier-like.  I 


326 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


knew  and  loved  your  late  commander  well  ; let  us  obtain 
the  confessions  of  the  lad  before  we  proceed  to  punishment, 
— there  may  be  others  more  guilty  than  he.” 

The  men  regarded  the  unexpected  intruder  with  such 
furious  aspects  as  augured  ill  of  their  deference  for  his  ad- 
vice and  station.  “Blood  for  blood  ! ” passed  from  mouth 
to  mouth,  in  low,  sullen  mutterings ; and  the  short  pause 
which  had  succeeded  his  appearance  was  already  broken  by 
still  less  equivocal  marks  of  hostility,  when,  happily  for  Pol- 
warth,  he  was  recognized,  through  the  twilight,  by  a veteran 
of  the  grenadiers,  as  one  of  the  former  intimates  of  M’Fuse. 
The  instant  the  soldier  communicated  this  discovery  to  his 
fellows,  the  growing  uproar  again  subsided,  and  the  captain 
was  relieved  from  no  small  bodily  terror,  by  hearing  his  own 
name  passing  among  them,  coupled  with  such  amicable  addi- 
tions as  “His  ould  fri’nd  ! ” “An  offisher  of  the  light 
troops  ! ” “ He  that  the  ribbils  massacred  of  a leg  ! ’ ’ etc. 

As  soon  as  this  explanation  was  generally  understood,  his 
ears  were  greeted  with  a burst  from  every  mouth,  of — 

“Hurrah  for  Captain  Polly warreth  ! His  fri’nd!  the 
brave  Captain  Polly  warreth  ! 5 ’ 

Pleased  with  his  success,  and  secretly  gratified  by  the 
commendations  that  were  now  freely  lavished  on  himself, 
with  characteristic  liberality,  the  mediator  improved  the 
slight  advantage  he  had  obtained,  by  again  addressing  them. 

“I  thank  you  for  your  good  opinion,  my  friends,”  he 
added,  ‘ ‘ and  must  acknowledge  it  is  entirely  mutual.  I love 
the  Royal  Irish,  on  account  of  one  that  I well  knew,  and 
greatly  esteemed,  and  who,  I fear,  was  murdered  in  defiance 
of  all  the  rules  of  war.  ’ ’ 

“ Hear  ye  that,  Dennis  ? — murdered  ! ” 

‘ 4 Blood  for  blood  ! ’ ’ muttered  three  or  four  surly  voices 
at  once. 

“Ret  us  deliberate,  that  we  may  be  just,  and  just  that 
our  vengeance  may  be  lawful,”  Polwarth  quickly  answered, 
fearful  that  if  the  torrent  once  more  broke  loose,  it  would 
exceed  his  powers  to  stay  it.  “A  true  soldier  always  awaits 
his  orders  ; and  what  regiment  in  the  army  can  boast  of  its 
discipline,  if  it  be  not  the  i8th  ? Form  yourselves  in  a cir- 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


327 


cle  around  your  prisoner,  and  listen,  while  I extract  the 
truth  from  him.  After  that,  should  he  prove  guilty,  I will 
consign  him  to  your  tenderest  mercy.5 5 

The  rioters,  who  only  saw,  in  the  delay,  a more  method- 
ical execution  of  their  own  violent  purpose,  received  the 
proposition  with  another  shout,  and  the  name  of  Polwarth, 
pronounced  in  all  the  varieties  of  their  barbarous  idioms, 
rung  loudly  through  the  naked  rafters  of  the  building,  while 
they  disposed  themselves  to  comply. 

The  captain,  with  a wish  to  gain  time  to  command  his 
thoughts,  required  that  a light  should  be  struck,  in  order,  as 
he  said,  to  study  the  workings  of  the  countenance  of  the  ac- 
cused. As  the  night  had  now  gathered  about  them  in  good 
earnest,  the  demand  was  too  reasonable  for  objection,  and 
with  the  same  headlong  eagerness  that  they  had  manifested 
a few  minutes  before,  to  shed  the  blood  of  Job,  they  turned 
their  attention,  with  thoughtless  versatility,  to  effect  this 
harmless  object.  A brand  had  been  brought,  for  a very 
different  end,  when  the  plan  of  burning  was  proposed,  and  it 
had  been  cast  aside  again  with  the  change  of  purpose.  A 
few  of  its  sparks  were  now  collected,  and  some  bundles  of 
oakum,  which  lay  in  a corner  of  the  warehouse,  were  fired, 
and  carefully  fed  in  such  a manner  as  to  shed  a strong  light 
through  every  cranny  of  the  gloomy  edifice. 

By  the  aid  of  this  fitful  glare,  the  captain  succeeded  once 
more  in  marshalling  the  rioters  in  such  a manner  that  no 
covert  injury  could  be  offered  to  Job.  The  whole  affair 
now  assumed,  in  some  measure,  the  character  of  a regular 
investigation.  The  curiosity  of  the  men  without  overcame 
their  fears  of  infection,  and  they  crowded  into  the  place,  in 
earnest  attention,  until,  in  a very  few  moments,  no  other 
sound  was  audible  but  the  difficult  and  oppressed  respiration 
of  their  victim.  When  all  the  other  noises  had  ceased,  and 
Polwarth  perceived  by  the  eager  and  savage  countenances, 
athwart  which  the  bright  glare  of  the  burning  hemp  was 
gleaming,  that  delay  might  yet  be  dangerous,  he  proceeded 
at  once  in  his  inquiries. 

‘'You  may  see,  Job  Pray,  by  the  manner  in  which  you 
are  surrounded,55  he  said,  “that  judgment  has  at  length 


328 


Xiortel  Xfncoln 


overtaken  you,  and  that  your  only  hope  for  mercy  lies  in 
your  truth.  Answer,  then,  to  such  questions  as  I shall  put, 
and  keep  the  fear  of  God  before  your  eyes.” 

The  captain  paused,  to  allow  this  exhortation  to  produce 
its  desired  effect.  But  Job,  perceiving  that  his  late  tor- 
mentors were  quiet,  and  to  all  appearances  bent  on  no  im- 
mediate mischief,  sunk  his  head  languidly  upon  his  blankets, 
where  he  lay  in  silence,  watching,  with  rolling  and  anxious 
eyes,  the  smallest  movements  of  his  enemies.  Polwarth 
soon  yielded  to  the  impatience  of  his  listeners,  and  contin- 
ued,— 

“ You  are  acquainted  with  Major  Lincoln  ? ” 

“ Major  Lincoln  ! ” grumbled  three  or  four  of  the  grena- 
diers ; “ is  it  of  him  that  we  want  to  hear  ? ” 

“One  moment,  my  worthy  i8ths ; I shall  come  at  the 
whole  truth  the  sooner,  by  taking  this  indirect  course. ’ ’ 

4 4 Hurrah  for  Captain  Polly warreth  ! 5 ’ shouted  the  rioters, 
“ him  that  the  ribbils  massacred  of  a leg  ! ” 

“Thank  you — thank  you,  my  considerate  friends:  an- 
swer, fellow,  without  prevarication  ; you  dare  not  deny  to 
me  your  knowledge  of  Major  Lincoln  ? ” 

After  a momentary  pause,  a low  voice  was  heard  mutter- 
ing among  the  blankets, — 

“Job  knows  all  the  Boston  people  ; and  Major  Lincoln  is 
a Boston  boy.” 

“ But  with  Major  Lincoln  you  had  a more  particular  ac- 
quaintance. Restrain  your  impatience,  men  ; these  ques- 
tions lead  directly  to  the  facts  you  wish  to  know. ’ 9 The 
rioters,  who  were  profoundly  ignorant  of  what  sort  of  facts 
they  were  to  be  made  acquainted  with  by  this  examination, 
looked  at  each  other  in  uneasy  doubt,  but  soon  settled  down 
again  into  their  former  deep  silence.  “ You  know  him  bet- 
ter than  any  other  gentleman  of  the  army?  ” 

“He  promised  Job  to  keep  off  the  grannies,  and  Job 
agreed  to  run  his  arr’nds.” 

4 4 Such  an  arrangement  betra}'S  a greater  intimacy  than 
is  usual  between  a wise  man  and  a fool  ! If  you  are  then 
so  close  in  league  with  him,  I demand  what  has  become  of 
your  associate?” 


Xlonel  Xincoltt 


329 


The  young  man  made  no  reply. 

“ You  are  thought  to  know  the  reasons  why  he  has  left 
his  friends/’  returned  Polwarth,  “ and  I now  demand  that 
you  declare  them.” 

‘ ‘ Declare  ! ’ ’ repeated  the  simpleton,  in  his  most  unmean- 
ing and  helpless  manner;  “Job  was  never  good  at  his 
schooling.” 

“Nay,  then,  if  you  are  obstinate,  and  will  not  answer,  I 
must  withdraw,  and  permit  these  brave  grenadiers  to  work 
their  will  on  you.” 

This  threat  served  to  induce  Job  to  raise  his  head,  and 
assume  that  attitude  and  look  of  instinctive  watchfulness 
that  he  had  so  recently  abandoned.  A slight  movement  of 
the  crowd  followed,  and  the  terrible  words  of  “ Blood  for 
blood!”  again  passed  among  them  in  sullen  murmurs. 
The  helpless  youth,  whom  we  have  been  obliged  to  call  an 
idiot,  for  want  of  a better  term,  and  because  his  mental 
imbecility  removed  him  without  the  pale  of  legal  responsibil- 
ity, now  stared  wildly  about  him,  with  an  increasing  expres- 
sion of  reason,  that  might  be  ascribed  to  the  force  of  that 
inward  fire  which  preyed  upon  his  vitals,  and  which  seemed 
to  purify  the  spirit  in  proportion  as  it  consumed  the  material 
dross  of  his  existence. 

“It’s  agin  the  laws  of  the  Bay  to  beat  and  torment  a 
fellow-creature,”  he  said,  with  a solemn  earnestness  in  his 
voice,  that  would  have  melted  hearts  of  ordinary  softness  ; 
“ and,  what  is  more,  it ’s  agin  His  holy  book  ! If  you  hadn’t 
made  oven- wood  of  the  Old  North,  and  a horse-stable  of 
the  Old  South,  you  might  have  gone  to  hear  such  expound- 
ing as  would  have  made  the  hair  rise  on  your  wicked 
heads  ! ’ ’ 

The  cries  of  “ Have  done  wid  his  foolery  ! ” “ The  imp 

is  playing  his  games  on  us  ! ” “ As  if  his  wooden  mockery 

was  a church  at  all  fit  for  a ra’al  Christian  ! ” were  heard 
on  every  side,  and  they  were  succeeded  by  the  often  repeated 
and  appalling  threat  of  “Blood  for  blood  ! ” 

“Fall  back,  men,  fall  back!”  cried  Polwarth,  flourish- 
ing his  walking-stick  in  such  a manner  as  effectually  to  en- 
force his  orders  ; “ wait  for  his  confession  before  you  judge. 


33° 


Xxonel  ^Lincoln 


Fellow,  this  is  the  last  and  trying  appeal  to  your  truth — 
your  life  most  probably  depends  on  the  answer.  You  are 
known  to  have  been  in  arms  against  the  crown.  Nay,  I 
myself  saw  you  in  the  field  on  that  day  when  the  troops 
a-a-a  countermarched  from  Lexington  ; since  when  you  are 
known  to  have  joined  the  rebels  while  the  army  went  out 
to  storm  the  intrenchment  on  the  heights  of  Charlestown  ; ’ ’ 
at  this  point  in  the  recapitulation  of  the  offences  of  Job, 
the  captain  was  suddenly  appalled  by  a glimpse  at  the  dark 
and  threatening  looks  that  encircled  him,  and  he  concluded 
with  a laudable  readiness  ; “on  that  glorious  day  when  his 
majesty’s  troops  scattered  your  provincial  rabble  like  so 
many  sheep  driven  from  their  pastures  by  dogs  ! ’ 9 

The  humane  ingenuity  of  Polwarth  was  rewarded  by  a 
burst  of  loud  and  savage  laughter.  Encouraged  by  this  evi- 
dence of  his  power  over  his  auditors,  the  worthy  captain  pro- 
ceeded with  an  increased  confidence  in  his  own  eloquence. 

“ On  that  glorious  day,”  he  continued,  gradually  warming 
with  his  subject  “many  a gallant  gentleman  and  hun- 
dreds of  fearless  privates  met  their  fate.  Some  fell  in  open 
and  manly  fight,  and  according  to  the  chances  of  regular 
warfare.  Some — he-e-m — some  have  been  mutilated  ; and 
will  carry  the  marks  of  their  glory  with  them  to  the  grave.” 
His  voice  grew  a little  thick  and  husky  as  he  proceeded ; 
but,  shaking  off  his  weakness,  he  ended  with  an  energy  that 
he  intended  should  curdle  the  heart  of  the  prisoner  : ‘ ‘ while, 
fellow,  some  have  been  murdered  ! 99 

“ Blood  for  blood  ! 99  was  heard  again  passing  its  fearful 
round.  Without  attempting  any  longer  to  repress  the  rising 
spirit  of  the  rioters,  Polwarth  continued  his  interrogatories, 
entirely  led  away  by  the  strength  of  his  own  feelings  on  this 
sensitive  subject. 

“ Remember  you  such  a man  as  Dennis  M’Fuse?”  he 
demanded  in  a voice  of  thunder  : “he  that  was  treacher- 
ously slain  in  your  inmost  trenches,  after  the  day  was  won  ! 
Answer  me,  knave,  were  you  not  among  the  rabble,  and  did 
not  your  own  vile  hand  the  bloody  deed  ? ’ ’ 

A few  words  were  heard  from  Job,  in  a low  muttering 
tone,  of  which  only  “ the  rake-hellies,  ’ ’ and  “ the  people  will 


%ioncl  ^Lincoln 


331 


teach  ’em  the  law  ! ” were  sufficiently  distinct  to  be  under- 
stood. 

“ Murder  him  ! part  him  sowl  from  body  ! ” exclaimed 
the  fiercest  of  the  grenadiers. 

‘ ‘ Hold  ! ’ ’ cried  Polwarth  ; ‘ ‘ but  one  moment  more  ; I 
would  relieve  my  mind  from  the  debt  I owe  his  memory. 
Speak,  fellow  ! what  know  you  of  the  death  of  the  comman- 
der of  these  brave  grenadiers  ? ’ ’ 

Job,  who  had  listened  to  his  words  attentively,  though  his 
uneasy  eyes  still  continued  to  watch  the  slightest  movements 
of  his  foes,  now  turned  to  the  speaker  with  a look  of  foolish 
triumph,  and  answered, — 

“ The  1 8th  came  up  the  hill,  shouting  like  roaring  lions  ! 
but  the  Royal  Irish  had  a death-howl,  that  evening,  over 
their  tallest  man  ! ” 

Polwarth  trembled  with  the  violence  of  the  passions  that 
beset  him  ; but,  wffiile  with  one  hand  he  motioned  to  the 
men  to  keep  back,  with  other  he  produced  the  battered  gor- 
get from  his  pocket,  and  held  it  before  the  eyes  of  the  sim- 
pleton. 

“ Know  you  this  ? ” he  demanded  ; “ who  sent  the  bullet 
through  this  fatal  hole?  ” 

Job  took  the  ornament,  and  for  a moment  regarded  it  with 
an  unconscious  look.  But  his  countenance  gradually  light- 
ing with  a ray  of  unusual  meaning,  he  laughed  in  scornful 
exultation,  as  he  answered, — 

“ Though  Job  is  a fool,  he  can  shoot ! ” 

Polwarth  started  back  aghast,  while  the  fierce  resent- 
ments of  his  ruder  listeners  broke  through  all  restraint. 
They  raised  a loud  and  savage  shout,  as  one  man,  filling 
the  building  with  hoarse  execrations  and  cries  for  ven- 
geance. Twenty  expedients  to  destroy  their  captive  were 
named  in  a breath,  and  with  all  the  characteristic  vehemence 
of  their  nation.  Most  of  them  would  have  been  irregularly 
adopted,  had  not  the  man  who  attended  the  burning  hemp 
caught  up  a bundle  of  the  flaming  combustibles,  and  shouted 
aloud, — 

“ Smodder  him  in  the  fiery  flames  ! he  ’s  an  imp  of  dark- 
ness ; burren  him  in  his  rags  from  before  the  face  of  man  ! 


332 


Xionel  Lincoln 


The  barbarous  proposition  was  received  with  a sort  of 
frenzied  joy,  and  in  another  moment  a dozen  handfuls  of 
the  oakum  were  impending  above  the  devoted  head  of  the 
helpless  lad.  Job  made  a feeble  attempt  to  avert  the  dread- 
ful  fate  that  threatened  him,  but  he  could  offer  no  other 
resistance  than  his  own  weakened  arm,  and  the  abject  moan- 
ings  of  his  impotent  mind.  He  was  enveloped  in  a cloud  of 
black  smoke,  through  which  the  forked  flames  had  already 
begun  to  play,  when  a women  burst  into  the  throng,  casting 
the  fiery  combustibles  from  her,  on  either  side,  as  she 
advanced,  with  a strength  that  seemed  supernatural.  When 
she  had  reached  the  bed,  she  tore  aside  the  smoking  pile 
with  hands  that  disregarded  the  heat,  and  placed  herself 
before  the  victim,  like  a fierce  lioness  at  bay,  in  defence  of 
her  whelps.  In  this  attitude  she  stood  an  instant,  regarding 
the  rioters  with  a breast  that  heaved  with  passions  too 
strong  for  utterance,  when  she  found  her  tongue,  and  vented 
her  emotions  with  all  the  fearlessness  of  a woman’s  indigna- 
tion. 

“Ye  monsters  in  the  shape  of  men;  what  is  ’t  ye  do  ! ” she 
exclaimed  in  a voice  that  rose  above  the  tumult,  and  had 
the  effect  to  hush  every  mouth.  4 4 Have  ye  bodies  without 
hearts  ! the  forms  without  the  bowels  of  the  creatures  of 
God  ! Who  made  you  judges  and  punishers  of  sin  ! Is 
there  a father  among  you,  let  him  come  and  view  the  an- 
guish of  a dying  child  ! Is  there  a son,  let  him  draw  near, 
and  look  upon  a mother’s  sorrow  ! O ! ye  savages,  worse 
than  the  beasts  of  the  howling  wilderness,  who  have  mercy 
on  their  kinds,  what  is  ’t  ye  do  ; what  is ’t  ye  do  ! ” 

The  air  of  maternal  intrepidity  with  which  this  burst 
from  the  heart  was  uttered,  could  not  fail  to  awe  the  worst 
passions  of  the  rioters,  who  gazed  on  each  other  in  stupid 
wonder,  as  if  uncertain  how  to  act.  The  hushed  and  mo- 
mentary stillness  was,  however,  soon  broken  once  more  by 
the  low,  murmuring  threat  of  44  Blood  for  blood  ! ” 

44  Cowards  ! dastards  ! soldiers  in  name,  and  demons  in 
your  deeds  ! ” continued  the  undaunted  Abigail ; 44  come  ye 
here  to  taste  of  human  blood?  Go, — away  with  you  to  the 
hill  ! and  face  the  men  of  the  Bay,  who  stand  ready  to  meet 


Xlonei  Xirtcoln 


333 


you  with  arms  in  their  hands,  and  come  not  hither  to  bruise 
the  broken  reed  ! Poor,  suffering,  and  stricken  as  he  is,  by 
a hand  far  mightier  than  yours,  my  child  will  meet  you 
there,  to  your  shame,  in  the  cause  of  his  country,  and  the 
law  ! * ’ 

This  taunt  was  too  bitter  for  the  unnurtured  tempers  to 
which  she  appealed,  and  the  dying  spark  of  their  resentment 
was  at  once  kindled  into  a blaze  by  the  galling  gibe. 

The  rioters  were  again  in  motion,  and  the  cry  of  ‘ ‘ Bum 
the  hag  and  the  imp  together  ! ” was  fiercely  raised,  when  a 
man  of  a stout,  muscular  frame  forced  his  way  into  the  cen- 
tre of  the  crowd,  making  room  for  the  passage  of  a female, 
whose  gait  and  attire,  though  her  person  was  concealed  by 
her  mantle,  announced  her  to  be  of  a rank  altogether  supe- 
rior to  the  usual  guests  of  the  warehouse.  The  unexpected 
appearance,  and  lofty,  though  gentle  bearing  of  this  un- 
looked-for visitor,  served  to  quell  the  rising  uproar,  which 
was  immediately  succeeded  by  so  deep  a silence,  that  a 
whisper  could  have  been  heard  in  that  throng,  which  so 
lately  resounded  with  violent  tumult  and  barbarous  execra- 
tions. 


CHAPTER  XXVII. 


“ Ay,  sir,  you  shall  find  me  reasonable  ; if  it  be  so,  I shall  do  that 
that  is  reason.’ ’ 


SLENDER. 


DURING  the  close  of  the  foregoing  scene,  Polwarth 
was  in  a bewildered  state,  that  rendered  him  utterly 
incapable  of  exertion,  either  to  prevent  or  to  assist 
the  evil  intentions  of  the  soldiery.  His  discretion 
and  all  his  better  feelings  were  certainly  on  the  side  of  hu- 
manity, but  the  idle  vaunt  of  the  simpleton  had  stirred  anew 
the  natural  thirst  for  vengeance.  He  recognized,  at  the  first 
glance,  in  the  wan  but  speaking  lineaments  of  the  mother 
of  Job,  those  faded  remnants  of  beauty  that  he  had  traced, 
so  lately,  in  the  squalid  female  attendant  who  was  seen  ling- 
ering near  the  grave  of  Mrs.  Eechmere.  As  she  rushed  be- 
fore the  men,  with  all  the  fearlessness  of  a mother  who  stood 
in  defence  of  her  child,  the  brightness  of  her  dark  eyes, 
aided  as  they  were  by  the  strong  glare  from  the  scattered 
balls  of  fire,  and  the  intense  expression  of  maternal  horror 
that  shone  in  every  feature  of  her  countenance,  had  imparted 
to  her  appearance  a dignity  and  interest  that  greatly  served 
to  quell  the  unusual  and  dangerous  passions  that  beset  him. 
He  was  on  the  point  of  aiding  her  appeal  by  his  authority 
and  advice,  when  the  second  interruption  to  the  brutal  pur- 
pose of  the  men  occurred,  as  just  related.  The  effect  of  this 
strange  appearance,  in  such  a place,  and  at  such  a time,  was 
not  less  instant  on  the  captain  than  on  the  vulgar  throng 
who  surrounded  him.  He  remained  a silent  and  an  atten- 
tive spectator. 

The  first  sensation  of  the  lady  in  finding  herself  in  the 


Xlonel  Xlncoln 


335 


centre  of  such  a confused  and  unexpected  throng,  was  un- 
equivocally that  of  an  alarmed  and  shrinking  delicacy  ; but, 
forgetting  her  womanish  apprehensions  in  the  next  moment, 
she  collected  the  powers  of  her  mind,  like  one  sustained  by 
high  and  laudable  intentions,  and  dropping  the  silken  folds 
of  her  calash,  exhibited  the  pale,  but  lovely  countenance  of 
Cecil  to  the  view  of  the  wondering  bystanders.  After  a 
moment  of  profound  silence,  she  spoke, — 

‘ ‘ I know  not  why  I find  this  fierce  collection  of  faces 
around  the  sick-bed  of  that  unfortunate  young  man,”  she 
said  ; ‘ ‘ but  if  it  be  with  evil  purpose,  I charge  you  to  re- 
lent, as  you  love  the  honor  of  your  gallant  profession,  or 
fear  the  power  of  your  leaders.  I boast  myself  a soldier’s 
wife,  and  promise  you,  in  the  name  of  one  who  has  the  ear 
of  Howe,  pardon  for  what  is  past,  or  punishment  for  your 
violence,  as  you  conduct  yourselves.” 

The  rude  listeners  stared  at  each  other  in  irresolute  hesi- 
tation, seeming  already  to  waver  in  their  purpose,  when 
the  old  grenadier,  whose  fierceness  had  so  nearly  cost  Job  his 
life,  gruffly  replied, — 

“ If  you  ’re  an  officer’s  lady,  madam,  you  ’ll  be  knowing 
how  to  feel  for  the  fri’nds  of  him,  that ’s  dead  and  gone.  I 
put  it  to  the  face  of  your  ladyship’s  reason,  if  it ’s  not  too 
much  for  men  to  bear, — and  they  such  men  as  the  i8ths, 
— to  hear  a fool  boasting  on  the  highways  and  through  the 
streets  of  the  town,  that  he  has  been  the  death  of  the  like 
of  Captain  M’Fuse,  of  the  grenadiers  of  that  same  radg’- 
ment ! ’ ’ 

” I believe  I understand  3^ou,  friend,”  returned  Cecil, 
“ for  I have  heard  it  whispered  that  the  young  man  was 
believed  to  aid  the  Americans  on  the  bloody  day  to  which 
you  allude ; but  if  it  is  not  lawful  to  kill  in  battle,  what  are 
you,  whose  whole  trade  is  war  ? ” 

She  was  interrupted  by  half-a-dozen  eager,  though  re- 
spectful voices,  muttering,  in  the  incoherent  and  vehement 
manner  of  their  country,  “ It ’s  all  a difference,  my  lady  ! ” 
“ Fair  fighting  isn’t  foul  fighting,  and  foul  fighting  is  mur- 
der ! ” — with  many  other  similar  half- formed  and  equally 
intelligible  remonstrances.  When  this  burst  was  ended,  the 


Xlonel  Xincoln 


336 


same  grenadier,  who  had  before  spoken,  took  on  himself  the 
office  of  explaining. 

44  If  your  ladyship  spoke  never  a word  again,  ye  ’ve  said 
the  truth  this  time,”  he  answered,  44  though  it  isn’t  exactly 
the  truth  at  all.  When  a man  is  kilPt  in  the  fair  war,  it ’s 
a god-send  ; and  no  true  Irishman  will  gainsay  the  same  : 
but  skulking  behind  a dead  body,  and  taking  aim  into  the 
f atures  of  a fellow-creature,  is  what  we  complain  of  against 
the  bloody-minded  rascal.  Besides,  wasn’t  the  day  won? 
and  even  his  death  could  n’t  give  them  the  victory  ! ” 

“I  know  not  all  these  nice  distinctions  in  your  dreadful 
calling,  friend,”  Cecil  replied,  “but  I have  heard  that  many 
fell  after  the  troops  mounted  the  works.  ’ * 

4 4 That  did  they  ; sure  your  ladyship  is  knowing  all  about 
it ! and  it ’s  the  more  need  that  some  should  be  punished  for 
the  murders!  It’s  hard  to  tell  when  we’ve  got  the  day 
with  men  who  make  a fight  of  it  after  they  are  fairly 
baiten  ! ’ ’ 

4 4 That  others  suffered  under  similar  circumstances,”  con- 
tinued Cecil,  with  a quivering  lip,  and  a tremulous  motion 
of  her  eyelids,  4 4 1 well  know ; but  never  had  supposed  it 
more  than  the  usual  fortune  of  every  war.  But  even  if  this 
youth  has  erred — look  at  him  ! — is  he  an  object  for  the 
resentment  of  men,  who  pride  themselves  on  meeting  their 
enemies  on  equal  terms?  He  has  long  been  visited  by  a 
blow  from  a hand  far  mightier  than  yours,  and  even  now  is 
laboring,  in  addition  to  all  other  misfortunes,  under  that 
dangerous  distemper,  whose  violence  seldom  spares  those  it 
seizes.  Nay,  you,  in  the  blindness  of  your  anger,  expose 
yourselves  to  its  attacks  ; and  when  you  think  only  of  re- 
venge, may  become  its  victims  ! ’ ’ 

The  crowd  insensibly  fell  back  as  she  spoke,  and  a large 
circle  was  left  around  the  bed  of  Job,  while  many  in  the 
rear  stole  silently  from  the  building,  with  a haste  that  be- 
trayed how  completely  apprehension  had  got  the  better  of 
their  more  evil  passions.  Cecil  paused  but  an  instant,  and 
pursued  her  advantage. 

44  Go,”  she  said  ; 44  leave  this  dangerous  vicinity.  I have 
business  with  this  young  man,  touching  the  interests,  if  not 


Xionel  Xfncolit 


337 


the  life  of  one  dear,  deservedly  dear,  to  the  whole  army, 
and  would  be  left  alone  with  him  and  his  mother.  Here  is 
money — retire  to  your  own  quarters,  and  endeavor  to  avert 
the  danger  you  have  so  wantonly  braved  by  care  and 
regimen.  Go  ; all  shall  be  forgotten  and  pardoned.’' 

The  reluctant  grenadier  took  her  gold,  and,  perceiving 
that  he  was  already  deserted  by  most  of  his  companions,  he 
made  an  awkward  obeisance  to  the  fair  being  before  him, 
and  withdrew,  not  without,  however,  casting  many  a savage 
and  sullen  glance  at  the  miserable  wretch  who  had  been 
thus  singularly  rescued  from  his  vengeance.  Not  a soldier 
now  remained  in  the  building ; and  the  noisy  and  rapid 
utterance  of  the  retiring  party,  as  each  vehemently  re- 
counted his  deeds,  soon  became  inaudible  in  the  distance. 

Cecil  then  turned  to  those  who  remained,  and  cast  a 
rapid  glance  at  each  individual  of  the  party.  The  instant 
she  encountered  the  wondering  look  of  Polwarth  the  blood 
mantled  her  pale  features  once  more,  and  her  eyes  fell,  for 
an  instant,  in  embarrassment  to  the  floor. 

‘ ‘ I trust  we  have  been  drawn  here  for  a similar  purpose, 
Captain  Polwarth,”  she  said,  when  the  slight  confusion  had 
passed  away — “ the  welfare  of  a common  friend  ? ” 

“ You  have  not  done  me  injustice,”  he  replied.  “ When 
the  sad  office,  which  your  fair  cousin  charged  me  with,  was 
ended,  I hastened  hither  to  follow  a clue  which,  I have 
reason  to  believe,  will  conduct  us  to — ’ ’ 

‘ 4 What  we  most  desire  to  find,  ’ ’ said  Cecil,  involuntarily 
glancing  her  anxious  eyes  towards  the  other  spectators. 
“But  our  first  duty  is  humanity.  Cannot  this  miserable 
young  man  be  reconveyed  to  his  own  apartment,  and  have 
his  hurts  examined  ? ” 

“It  may  be  done  now,  or  after  our  examination,”  re- 
turned the  captain,  with  a cool  indifference  that  caused 
Cecil  to  look  up  at  him  in  surprise.  Perceiving  the  un- 
favorable impression  his  apathy  had  produced,  Polwarth 
turned  carelessly  to  a couple  of  men  who  were  still  curious 
lookers-on,  at  the  outer  door  of  the  building,  and  called  to 
them — “Here,  Shearflint,  Meriton,  remove  the  fellow  into 
yonder  room.” 

23 


338 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


The  servants  in  waiting,  who  had  been  hitherto  wonder- 
ing witnesses  of  all  that  passed,  received  this  mandate  with 
strong  disgust.  Meriton  was  loud  in  his  murmurs,  and 
approached  the  verge  of  disobedience  before  he  consented 
to  touch  such  an  object  of  squalid  misery.  As  Cecil,  how- 
ever, enforced  the  order  by  her  wishes,  the  disagreeable 
duty  was  performed,  and  Job  replaced  on  his  pallet  in  the 
tower,  from  which  he  had  been  rudely  dragged  an  hour 
before,  by  the  soldiers. 

At  the  moment  when  all  danger  of  further  violence  dis- 
appeared, Abigail  had  sunk  on  some  of  the  lumber  of  the 
apartment,  where  she  remained  during  the  removal  of  her  | 
child,  in  a sort  of  stupid  apathy.  When,  however,  she  per-  | 
ceived  that  they  were  now  surrounded  by  those  who  were 
bent  on  deeds  of  mercy  rather  than  of  anger,  she  slowly  ; 
followed  into  the  little  room,  and  became  an  anxious  ob- 
server of  the  succeeding  events. 

Polwarth  seemed  satisfied  with  what  had  been  done  for 
Job,  and  now  stood  aloof,  in  sullen  attendance  on  the  pleas-  : 
ure'of  Cecil.  The  latter,  who  had  directed  every  move- 
ment with  female  tenderness  and  care,  bade  the  servants 
retire  into  the  outer  room  and  wait  her  orders.  When 
Abigail,  therefore,  took  her  place  in  silence  near  the  bed  of 
her  child,  there  remained  present,  besides  herself  and  the 
sick,  only  Cecil,  the  captain,  and  the  unknown  man,  who 
had  apparently  led  the  former  to  the  warehouse.  In  addi-  { 
tion  to  the  expiring  flames  of  the  oakum,  the  feeble  light  of 
a candle  was  shed  though  the  room,  merely  rendering  the 
gloomy  misery  of  its  tenants  more  striking. 

Notwithstanding  the  high  but  calm  resolution  which 
Cecil  had  displayed  in  the  foregoing  scene  with  the  rioters, 
and  which  still  manifested  itself  in  the  earnest  brightness 
of  her  intelligent  eye,  she  appeared  willing  to  profit  by  the 
duskiness  of  the  apartment,  to  conceal  her  expressive  feat- 
ures from  the  gaze  of  even  the  forlorn  female.  She  placed 
herself  in  one  of  the  shadows  of  the  room,  and  partly  raised 
the  calash,  by  a graceful  movement  of  one  of  her  hands, 
while  she  addressed  the  simpleton. 

“ Though  I have  not  come  hither  with  any  intent  to  pun- 


Xionel  Xincoln 


339 


ish,  nor  in  any  manner  to  intimidate  you  with  threats,  Job 
Pray,”  she  said,  with  an  earnestness  that  rendered  the  soft 
tones  of  her  voice  doubly  impressive  ; * ‘ yet  have  I come  to 
question  you  on  matters  that  it  would  be  wrong,  as  well  as 
cruel  in  you,  to  misrepresent,  or  in  any  manner  to  con- 
ceal— ’ ’ 

'‘You  have  little  cause  to  fear  that  anything  but  the  truth 
will  be  uttered  by  my  child,”  interrupted  Abigail.  “The 
same  power  that  destroyed  his  reason,  has  dealt  tenderly 
with  his  heart ; the  boy  knows  no  guile  ; would  to  God  the 
same  could  be  said  of  the  sinful  woman  who  bore  him  ! ’ 5 
‘ ‘ I hope  the  character  you  give  your  son  will  be  supported 
by  his  conduct,”  replied  Cecil ; “with  this  assurance  of  his 
integrity,  I will  directly  question  him.  But  that  you  may 
see  I take  no  idle  liberty  with  the  young  man,  let  me  explain 
my  motives.”  She  hesitated  a moment,  and  averted  her 
face  unconsciously,  as  she  continued,  “ I should  think, 
Abigail  Pray,  that  my  person  must  be  known  to  you?  ” 

“It  is — it  is,”  returned  the  impatient  woman,  who  ap- 
peared to  feel  the  feminine  and  polished  elegance  of  the  other 
a reproach  to  her  own  misery ; ‘ ‘ you  are  the  happy  and 
wealthy  heiress  of  her  whom  I have  seen  this  day  laid  in 
her  vault.  The  grave  will  open  for  all  alike, — the  rich  and 
and  the  poor,  the  happy  as  well  as  the  wretched  ! Yes, 
yes,  I know  you  ! you  are  the  bride  of  a rich  man’s  son  ! ” 
Cecil  shook  back  the  dark  tresses  that  had  fallen  about 
her  countenance,  and  raised  her  face,  tinged  with  its  richest 
bloom,  as  she  answered,  with  an  air  of  matronly  dignity, — 

“ If  you  then  know  of  my  marriage,  you  will  at  once  per- 
ceive that  I have  the  interest  of  a wife  in  Major  Lincoln.  I 
would  wish  to  learn  his  movements  of  your  son.” 

“Of  my  boy  ! of  Job  ! from  the  poor  despised  child  of 
poverty  and  disease,  would  you  learn  tidings  of  your  hus- 
band ? — no,  no,  young  lady,  you  mock  us  ; he  is  not  worthy 
to  be  in  the  secrets  of  one  so  great  and  happy  ! ” 

“Yet  I am  deceived  if  he  is  not.  Has  there  not  been  one 
called  Ralph,  a frequent  inmate  of  your  dwelling,  during 
the  past  year  ; and  has  he  not  been  concealed  here  within  a 
very  few  hours?  ” 


340 


Xfonel  Xirtcoln 


Abigail  started  at  this  question,  though  she  did  not 
hesitate  to  answer  without  prevarication, — 

“ It  is  true.  If  I am  to  be  punished  for  harboring  a being 
that  comes  I know  not  whence,  and  goes  I know  not  whither, 
who  can  read  the  heart,  and  knows  what  man,  by  his  own 
limited  powers,  could  never  know,  I must  submit.  He  was 
here  yesterday  ; he  may  be  here  again  to-night ; for  he 
comes  and  goes  at  will.  Your  generals  and  army  may  inter- 
fere, but  such  as  I dare  not  forbid  it.” 

‘ ‘ Who  accompanied  him  when  he  departed  last  ? ' ' asked 
Cecil,  in  a voice  so  low  that,  but  for  the  profound  stillness 
of  the  place,  it  would  have  been  inaudible. 

“ My  child,  my  weak,  unmeaning,  miserable  child  ! ''  said 
Abigail,  with  a reckless  promptitude  that  seemed  to  court 
any  termination  to  her  misery,  however  sudden  or  adverse. 
‘ 4 If  it  be  treasonable  to  follow  in  the  footsteps  of  that  name- 
less man,  Job  has  much  to  answer  for  ! ” 

“You  mistake  my  purpose;  good,  rather  than  evil,  will 
attend  your  answers,  should  they  be  found  true.” 

* ‘ True  ! ' ' repeated  the  woman,  ceasing  the  rocking  motion 
of  her  body,  and  looking  proudly  up  into  the  anxious  face 
of  Cecil;  “but  you  are  great  and  powerful,  and  are  privi- 
leged to  open  the  wounds  of  the  unhappy  ! ’ ' 

“ If  I have  said  anything  to  hurt  the  feelings  of  a child,  I 
shall  deeply  regret  the  words,”  said  Cecil,  with  gentle  fervor ; 
‘ ‘ I would  rather  be  your  friend  than  your  oppressor,  as  you 
will  learn  when  occasion  offers. 5 ’ 

“ No — no  —you  can  never  be  a friend  to  me  ! ’ ’ exclaimed 
the  woman,  shuddering  ; “ the  wife  of  Major  Lincoln  ought 
never  to  serve  the  interests  of  Abigail  Pray  ! ” 

The  simpleton,  who  had  apparently  lain  in  dull  indiffer- 
ence to  what  was  passing,  raised  himself  now  from  among 
his  rags,  and  said,  with  foolish  pride, — 

“ Major  Lincoln's  lady  has  come  to  see  Job,  because  Job 
is  a gentleman's  son  ! ” 

“You  are  the  child  of  sin  and  misery  ! ” groaned  Abigail, 
burying  her  head  in  her  cloak  ; ‘ * would  that  you  had  never 
seen  the  light  of  day  ! ' ' 

“Tell  me,  then,  Job,  whether  Major  Lincoln  himself  has 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


34i 


paid  you  this  compliment,  as  well  as  I,  ” said  Cecil,  without 
regarding  the  conduct  of  the  mother ; ‘ ‘ when  did  you  see 
him  last?” 

“ Perhaps  I can  put  these  questions  in  a more  intelligible 
manner,”  said  the  stranger,  with  a meaning  glance  of  his 
eye  towards  Cecil,  that  she  appeared  instantly  to  compre- 
hend. He  turned  then  to  Job,  whose  countenance  he  studied 
closely,  for  several  moments,  before  he  continued, — “ Boston 
must  be  a fine  place  for  parades  and  shows,  young  man  ; do 
you  ever  go  to  see  the  soldiers  exercise  ? ’ ’ 

“Job  always  keeps  time  in  the  marching,”  returned  the 
simpleton  ; “ ’t  is  a grand  sight  to  see  the  grannies  treading 
it  off  to  the  awful  sound  of  drums  and  trumpets  ! ’ ’ 

“And  Ralph,”  said  the  other,  soothingly,  “does  he 
march  in  their  company  too  ? 9 9 

“Ralph!  he’s  a great  warrior!  he  teaches  the  people 
their  trainings,  out  on  the  hills ; Job  sees  him  there  every 
time  he  goes  for  the  major’s  provisions.” 

“ This  requires  some  explanation,”  said  the  stranger. 

“ ’Tis  easily  obtained,”  returned  the  observant  Polwarth. 

‘ ‘ The  young  man  has  been  the  bearer  of  certain  articles 
periodically,  from  the  country  into  the  town,  during  the 
last  six  months,  under  the  favor  of  a flag.” 

The  man  mused  a moment  before  he  pursued  the  subject. 
“When  were  you  last  among  the  rebels,  Job?”  he  at 
length  asked. 

“You  had  best  not  call  the  people  rebels,”  muttered  the 
young  man,  sullenly,  “for  they  won’t  put  up  with  bitter 
names.” 

“I  was  wrong  indeed,”  said  the  stranger.  “But  when 
went  you  last  for  provisions?  ” 

“Job  got  in  last  Sabba’day  morning;  and  that’s  only 
yesterday  ! ’ ’ 

“How  happened  it,  fellow,  that  you  did  not  bring  the 
articles  to  me?”  demanded  Polwarth,  with  a good  deal  of 
impatient  heat. 

“He  has  unquestionably  a sufficient  reason  for  the  ap- 
parent neglect,”  said  the  cautious  and  soothing  stranger. 
“You  brought  them  here,  I suppose,  for  some  good  reason  ? ” 


342 


%ioncl  Xfncoltt 


‘ ‘ Ay  ! to  feed  his  own  gluttony  ! ’ ’ muttered  the  irritated 
captain. 

The  mother  of  the  young  man  clasped  her  hands  to- 
gether convulsively,  and  made  an  effort  to  rise  and  speak  ; 
but  she  sunk  again  into  her  humble  posture,  as  if  choked  by 
emotions  that  were  too  strong  for  utterance. 

This  short,  but  impressive  pantomime  was  unnoticed  by 
the  stranger,  who  continued  his  inquiries  in  the  same  cool 
and  easy  manner  as  before. 

“ Are  they  yet  here  ? ” he  asked. 

‘ ‘ Certain,  ’ ’ said  the  unsuspecting  simpleton  ; “Job  has  hid 
them  till  Major  Lincoln  comes  back.  Both  Ralph  and  Major 
Lincoln  forgot  to  tell  Job  what  to  do  with  the  provisions.  ’ ’ 

“ In  that  case  I am  surprised  you  did  not  pursue  them 
with  your  load.” 

“ Everybody  thinks  Job’s  a fool,”  muttered  the  young 
man  ; “ but  he  knows  too  much  to  be  lugging  provisions  out 
ag’in  among  the  people.  Why!”  he  continued,  raising 
himself,  and  speaking,  with  a bright  glare  dancing  across 
his  eyes,  that  betrayed  how  much  he  prized  the  envied  ad- 
vantage ; ‘ ‘ the  Bay-men  come  down  with  cart-loads  of  things 
to  eat,  while  the  town  is  filled  with  hunger  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ True ; I had  forgotten  they  were  gone  out  among  the 
Americans : of  course  they  went  under  the  flag  that  you 
bore  in  ? ” 

“Job  did  n’t  bring  any  flag — insygns  carry  the  flags! 
He  brought  a turkey,  a grand  ham,  and  a little  sa’ce — there 
was  n’t  any  flag  among  them.” 

At  the  sound  of  these  eatables,  the  captain  pricked  up 
his  ears,  and  he  probably  would  have  again  violated  the 
rigid  rules  of  decorum,  had  not  the  stranger  continued  his 
questions. 

“ I see  the  truth  of  all  you  say,  my  sensible  fellow,”  he 
observed.  “ It  was  easy  for  Ralph  and  Major  Lincoln  to 
go  out  by  means  of  the  same  privilege  that  you  used  to 
enter.  ’ ’ 

“ To  be  sure,”  muttered  Job,  who,  tired  of  the  questions, 
had  already  dropped  his  head  again  among  his  blankets— 
“ Ralph  knows  the  way — he  ’s  Boston  born  ! ” 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


343 


The  stranger  turned  to  the  attentive  bride,  and  bowed, 
as  if  he  were  satisfied  with  the  result  of  his  examination. 
Cecil  understood  the  expression  of  his  countenance,  and 
made  a movement  towards  the  place  where  Abigail  Pray 
was  seated  on  a chest,  betraying,  by  the  renewed  rocking 
of  her  body,  and  the  low  groans  that  from  time  to  time 
escaped  her,  the  agony  of  mind  she  endured. 

“ My  first  care,”  she  said,  speaking  to  the  mother  of  Job, 

‘ ‘ shall  be  to  provide  for  your  wants  ; after  which  I may  profit 
by  what  we  have  now  gathered  from  your  son.” 

“Care  not  for  me  and  mine!”  returned  Abigail,  in  a 
tone  of  bitter  resignation.  “ The  last  blow  is  struck,  and 
it  behooves  such  as  we  to  bow  our  heads  to  it  in  submission. 
Riches  and  plenty  could  not  save  your  grandmother  from 
the  tomb,  and  perhaps  Death  may  take  pity,  ere  long,  on 
me.  What  do  I say,  sinner  that  I am  ! can  I never  bring 
my  rebellious  heart  to  wait  his  time  ! ’ 5 
Shocked  at  the  miserable  despair  that  the  other  exhibited, 
and  suddenly  recollecting  the  similar  evidences  of  a guilty 
life  that  the  end  of  Mrs.  L,echmere  had  revealed,  Cecil 
continued  silent,  in  sensitive  distress.  After  a momenl 
to  collect  her  thoughts,  she  said,  with  the  meekness  of  a 
Christian,  united  to  the  soothing  gentleness  of  her  sex, — 
“We  are  surely  permitted  to  administer  to  our  earthly 
wants,  whatever  may  have  been  our  transgressions.  At  a 
proper  time  I will  not  be  denied  in  my  wish  to  serve  you. 
Let  us  now  go,”  she  added,  addressing  her  unknown  com- 
panion. Then,  observing  Polwarth  making  an  indication 
to  advance  to  her  assistance,  she  gently  motioned  him  back, 
and  anticipated  his  offer,  by  saying,  “ I thank  you,  sir — 
but  I have  Meriton,  and  this  worthy  man,  besides  my  own 
maid  without — I will  not  further  interfere  with  your  par- 
ticular objects.” 

As  she  spoke,  she  bestowed  a melancholy,  though  sweet 
smile  on  the  captain,  and  left  the  tower  and  the  building, 
before  he  could  presume  to  dispute  her  pleasure.  Notwith- 
standing Cecil  and  her  companion  had  obtained  from  Job 
all  that  he  could  expect,  or  in  fact  had  desired  to  know, 
Polwarth  lingered  in  the  room,  making  those  preparations 


344 


Xtonel  Xincoln 


that  should  indicate  an  intention  to  depart.  He  found,  at 
length,  that  his  presence  was  entirely  disregarded  by  both 
mother  and  child.  The  one  was  still  sitting,  with  her  head 
bowed  to  her  bosom,  abandoned  to  her  own  sorrows,  while 
the  other  had  sunk  into  his  customary  dull  lethargy,  giving 
no  other  signs  of  life  than  by  his  labored  and  audible 
breathing.  The  captain,  for  a moment,  looked  upon  the 
misery  of  the  apartment,  which  wore  a still  more  dreary 
aspect  under  the  dull  light  of  the  paltry  candle,  as  well  as 
at  the  disease  and  suffering  which  were  too  plainly  exhibited 
in  the  persons  of  its  abject  tenants  ; but  the  glance  at 
neither  served  to  turn  him  from  his  purpose.  Temptation 
had  beset  the  humble  follower  of  Epicurus,  in  a form  that 
never  failed  to  subdue  his  most  philosophic  resolutions  ; 
and,  in  this  instance,  it  prevailed  once  more  over  his  hu- 
manity. Approaching  the  pallet  of  the  simpleton,  he  spoke 
to  him  in  a sharp  voice,  saying, — 

" You  must  reveal  to  me  what  you  have  done  with  the  J 
provisions  with  which  Mr.  Seth  Sage  has  intrusted  you, 
young  man — I cannot  overlook  so  gross  a violation  of 
duty,  in  a matter  of  such  singular  importance.  Unless  you 
wish  to  have  the  grannies  of  the  18th  back  upon  you,  speak 
at  once,  and  speak  truly.' ’ 

Job  continued  obstinately  silent,  but  Abigail  raised  her 
head,  and  answered  for  her  child, — 

‘ 4 He  has  never  failed  to  carry  the  things  to  the  quarters  j 
of  the  major,  whenever  he  got  back.  No,  no — if  my  boy 
was  so  graceless  as  to  steal,  it  would  not  be  him  that  he 
would  rob  ! 5 ’ 

‘ ‘ I hope  so — I hope  so,  good  woman  ; but  this  is  a sort 
of  temptation  to  which  men  yield  easily  in  times  of  scar- 
city," returned  the  impatient  captain,  who  probably  felt 
some  inward  tokens  of  his  own  frailty  in  such  matters. 

" If  they  had  been  delivered,  would  not  I have  been  con- 
sulted concerning  their  disposition  ? The  young  man 
acknowledges  that  he  quitted  the  American  camp  yesterday 
at  an  early  hour." 

"No,  no,"  said  Job  ; "Ralph  made  him  come  away  on 
Saturda’ -night.  He  left  the  people  without  his  dinner." 


Xtonel  Xincoltt 


345 


* ‘ And  repaid  his  loss  by  eating  the  stores  ! Is  this  your 
honesty,  fellow  ? ” 

“ Ralph  was  in  such  a hurry  that  he  would  n’t  stop  to 
eat.  Ralph  ’s  a proper  warrior,  but  he  does  n’t  seem  to  know 
how  sweet  it  is  to  eat ! ’ ’ 

“Glutton!  gormandizer!  thou  ostrich  of  a man!”  ex- 
claimed the  angry  Polwarth  ; “is  it  not  enough  that  you 
have  robbed  me  of  my  own,  but  you  must  make  me  more 
conscious  of  my  loss  by  thy  silly  prating  ! ’ ’ 

“ If  you  really  suspect  my  child  of  doing  wrong  to  his 
employer,”  said  Abigail,  “you  know  neither  his  temper 
now  his  breeding.  I will  answer  for  him,  and  with  bitter- 
ness of  heart  do  I say  it,  that  nothing  in  the  shape 
of  food  has  entered  his  mouth  for  many  long  and  weary 
hours.  Hear  you  not  his  piteous  longings  for  nourish- 
ment? God,  who  knows  all  hearts,  will  hear  and  believe 
his  cry  ! ” 

“What  say  you,  woman?”  cried  Polwarth,  aghast  with 
horror  “ not  eaten,  did  you  say  ? What,  hast  thou  not,  un- 
natural mother,  provided  for  his  wants? — why  has  he  not 
shared  in  your  meals  ? ’ ’ 

Abigail  looked  up  into  his  face  with  eyes  that  gleamed 
with  hopeless  want,  as  she  answered, — 

“ Would  I willingly  see  the  child  of  my  body  perish  of 
hunger  ? The  last  crumb  he  had  was  all  that  was  left  me, 
and  that  came  from  the  hands  of  one,  who,  in  better  jus- 
tice, should  have  sent  me  poison  ! ” 

“ Nab  don’t  know  of  the  bone  that  Job  found  before  the 
barracks,”  said  the  young  man,  feebly;  “I  wonder  if  the 
king  knows  how  sweet  bones  are  ? 5 ’ 

“And  the  provisions,  the  stores!”  cried  Polwarth, 
nearly  choking — “foolish  boy,  what  hast  thou  done  with 
the  provisions?  ” 

“Job  knew  the  grannies  couldn’t  find  them  under  that 
oakum,”  said  the  simpleton,  raising  himself  to  point  out 
their  place  of  concealment,  with  silly  exultation — “when 
Major  Lincoln  comes  back,  maybe  he  ’ll  give  Nab  and  Job 
the  bones  to  pick  ! ’ ’ 

Polwarth  was  no  sooner  made  acquainted  with  the  situa* 


346  Xtonei  3Unc6In 


tion  of  the  precious  stores,  than  he  tore  them  from  their 
concealment,  with  the  violence  of  a maniac.  As  he  sepa- 
rated the  articles  with  an  unsteady  hand,  he  rather  panted 
than  breathed  ; and  during  the  short  operation,  every  feat- 
ure in  his  honest  face  was  working  with  extraordinary- 
emotion.  Now  and  then  he  muttered  in  an  under- tone, — 
“No  food  !’’—“  Suffering  of  inanition!”  or  some  such 
expressive  exclamation,  that  sufficiently  explained  the  cur- 
rent of  his  thoughts.  When  all  was  fairly  exposed,  he 
shouted  in  a tremendous  voice, — 

‘ ‘ Shearflint ! thou  rascal  ! Shearflint- — where  have  you 
hidden  yourself?  ” 

The  reluctant  menial  knew  how  dangerous  it  was  to 
hesitate  answering  a summons  uttered  in  such  a voice,  and 
while  his  master  was  yet  repeating  his  cries,  he  appeared 
at  the  door  of  the  little  apartment,  with  a face  expressive 
of  the  deepest  attention. 

“Tight  up  the  fire,  thou  prince  of  idlers!”  Polwarth 
continued  in  the  same  high  strain  ; “here  is  food,  and  there 
is  hunger  ! God  be  praised  that  I am  the  man  who  is 
permitted  to  bring  the  two  acquainted  ! Here,  throw  on 
oakum — light  up,  light  up  ! ” 

As  these  rapid  orders  were  accompanied  by  a correspond- 
ing earnestness  of  action,  the  servant,  who  knew  his  mas- 
ter’s humor,  set  himself  most  diligently  at  work  to  comply. 
A pile  of  the  tarred  combustible  was  placed  on  the  dreary 
and  empty  hearth,  and  by  a touch  of  the  candle,  it  was 
lighted  into  a blaze.  As  the  roar  of  the  chimney  and  the 
bright  glare  were  heard  and  seen,  the  mother  and  child  both 
turned  their  longing  eyes  towards  the  busy  actors  in  the  scene. 
Polwarth  threw  aside  his  cane,  and  commenced  slicing  the 
ham  with  a dexterity  that  denoted  great  practice,  as  well  as  an 
eagerness  that  renewed  the  credit  of  his  disgraced  humanity. 

“ Bring  wood — hand  down  that  apology  for  a gridiron 
— make  coals,  make  coals  at  once,  rascal,”  he  said,  at  short 
intervals  : ‘ ‘ God  forgive  me,  that  I should  ever  have  med- 
itated evil  to  one  suffering  under  the  heaviest  of  curses  ! 
D ’ye  hear,  thou  Shearflint  ! bring  more  wood  ; I shall  be 
ready  for  the  fire  in  a minute.” 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


347 


“ ’T  is  impossible,  sir,”  said  the  worried  domestic  ; “ I 
have  brought  the  smallest  chip  there  is  to  be  found — wood 
is  too  precious  in  Boston  to  be  lying  in  the  streets.” 

‘ ‘ Where  do  you  keep  your  fuel,  woman  ? ’ ’ demanded  the 
captain,  unconscious  that  he  addressed  her  in  the  same 
rough  strain  that  he  used  to  his  menial — ”1  am  ready  to 
put  down.” 

“ You  see  it  all  ! you  see  it  all ! ” said  Abigail,  in  the 
submissive  tones  of  a stricken  conscience  ; ‘ ‘ the  judgment  of 
God  has  not  fallen  on  me  singly  ! ’ ’ 

“ No  wood  ! no  provisions  ! ” exclaimed  Polwarth,  speak- 
ing with  difficulty ; then,  dashing  his  hand  across  his  eyes, 
he  continued  to  his  man,  in  a voice  whose  hoarseness  he 
intended  should  conceal  his  emotion, — “ thou  villain,  Shear- 
flint,  come  hither — unstrap  my  leg  ! ” 

The  servant  looked  at  him  in  wonder,  but  an  impatient 
gesture  hastened  his  compliance. 

“Split  it  into  ten  thousand  fragments  ; ’t  is  seasoned  and 
ready  for  the  fire.  The  best  of  them, — they  of  flesh,  I 
mean, — are  but  useless  incumbrances,  after  all  ! A cook 
wants  hands,  eyes,  nose,  and  palate,  but  I see  no  use  for  a 
leg!” 

While  he  was  speaking,  the  philosophic  captain  seated 
himself  on  the  hearth  with  great  indifference,  and,  by  the 
aid  of  Shearflint,  the  culinary  process  was  soon  in  a state  of 
forwardness. 

“There  are  people,”  resumed  the  diligent  Polwarth,  who 
did  not  neglect  his  avocation  while  speaking,  “ that  eat 
but  twice  a day  ; and  some  who  eat  but  once  ; though  I 
never  knew  any  man  thrive  who  did  not  supply  nature 
in  four  substantial  and  regular  meals.  These  sieges  are 
damnable  visitations  on  humanity,  and  there  should  be 
plans  invented  to  conduct  a war  without  them.  The 
moment  you  begin  to  starve  a soldier,  he  grows  tame 
and  melancholy : feed  him,  and  defy  the  devil ! How  is 
it,  my  worthy  fellow?  do  you  like  your  ham  running  or 
dry?” 

The  savory  smell  of  the  meat  had  caused  the  suffering 
invalid  to  raise  his  feverish  body,  and  he  sat  watching,  with 


34^ 


kernel  ^Lincoln 


greedy  looks,  every  movement  of  his  unexpected  benefactor. 
His  parched  lips  were  already  working  with  impatience, 
and  every  glance  of  his  glassy  eye  betrayed  the  absolute 
dominion  of  physical  want  over  his  feeble  mind.  To  this 
question  he  made  the  simple  and  touching  reply  of — 

‘‘  Job  is  n’t  particular  in  his  eating.” 

‘‘Neither  am  I,”  returned  the  methodical  gourmand,  re- 
turning a piece  of  the  meat  to  the  fire,  that  Job  had  already 
devoured  in  imagination  : “ one  would  like  to  get  it  up  well, 
notwithstanding  the  hurry.  A single  turn  more,  and  it 
will  be  fit  for  the  mouth  of  a prince.  Bring  hither  that 
trencher,  Shearflint — it  is  idle  to  be  particular  about  crock- 
ery in  so  pressing  a case.  Greasy  scoundrel,  would  you 
dish  a ham  in  its  gravy  ? What  a nosegay  it  is,  after  all ! 
Come  hither  ; help  me  to  the  bed.” 

‘ ‘ May  the  Lord,  who  sees  and  notes  each  kind  thought  of 
his  creatures,  bless  and  reward  you  for  this  care  of  my  for- 
lorn boy  ! ” exclaimed  Abigail,  in  the  fulness  of  her  heart. 
“ But  will  it  be  prudent  to  give  such  strong  nourishment  to 
one  in  a burning  fever  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ What  else  would  you  give,  woman  ? I doubt  not  he 
owes  his  disease  to  his  wants.  An  empty  stomach  is  like 
an  empty  pocket — a place  for  the  devil  to  play  his  gambols 
in.  ’T  is  your  small  doctor  who  prates  of  a meagre  regimen. 
Hunger  is  a distemper  of  itself,  and  no  reasonable  man,  who 
is  above  listening  to  quackery,  will  believe  it  can  be  a 
remedy.  Food  is  the  prop  of  life  ; and  eating,  like  a crutch 
to  a maimed  man.  Shearflint,  examine  the  ashes  for  the 
irons  of  my  supporter,  and  then  dish  a bit  of  the  meat  for 
the  poor  woman.  Eat  away,  my  charming  boy,  eat  away  ! ” 
he  continued,  rubbing  his  hands  in  honest  delight,  to  see 
the  avidity  with  which  the  famishing  Job  received  his 
boon.  ‘‘The  second  pleasure  in  life  is  to  see  a hungry 
man  enjoy  his  meal ; the  first  being  more  deeply  seated 
in  human  nature.  This  ham  has  the  true  Virginia 
flavor  ! Have  you  such  a thing  as  a spare  trencher,  Shear- 
flint? It  is  so  near  the  usual  hour,  I may  as  well  sup. 
It  is  rare,  indeed,  that  a man  enjoys  two  such  luxuries  at 
once  ! ’ ’ 


Xionel  Xxncoltt 


349 


The  tongue  of  Polwarth  ceased  the  instant  Shearflint  ad- 
ministered to  his  wants ; the  warehouse,  into  which  he 
had  so  lately  entered  with  such  fell  intent,  exhibiting  the/ 
strange  spectacle  of  the  captain,  sharing,  with  social  com- 
munion, in  the  humble  repast  of  its  hunted  and  miserable 
tenants. 


CHAPTER  XXVIII. 

“ Sir  Thurio,  give  us  leave,  I pray,  awhile  ; 

We  have  some  secrets  to  confer  about.” 

Two  Gentlemen  of  Verona. 

DURING  the  preceding  exhibition  of  riot  and  degra- 
dation in  the  Dock  Square,  a very  different  state 
of  things  existed  beneath  the  roof  of  a proud  edi- 
fice that  stood  in  an  adjacent  street.  As  was  usual 
at  that  hour  of  the  night,  the  windows  of  Province  House 
were  brilliant  with  lights,  as  if  in  mockery  of  the  naked 
dreariness  of  the  neighboring  church  ; and  every  approach 
to  that  privileged  residence  of  the  representative  of  royalty 
was  closely  guarded  by  the  vigilance  of  armed  men.  Into 
this  favored  dwelling  it  now  becomes  necessary  to  remove 
the  scene,  in  order  to  pursue  the  thread  of  our  unpretending 
narrative. 

Domestics,  in  rich  military  liveries,  might  be  seen  gliding 
from  room  to  room,  in  the  hurry  of  a banquet — some  bear- 
ing vessels  of  the  most  generous  wines  into  the  apartment 
where  Howe  entertained  the  leaders  of  the  royal  army,  and 
others  returning  with  the  remnants  of  a feast,  which,  though 
sumptuously  served,  having  felt  the  scarcity  of  the  times, 
had  offered  more  to  the  eyes  than  to  the  appetites  of  the 
guests.  Idlers,  in  the  loose  undress  of  their  martial  profes- 
sion, loitered  through  the  halls  ; and  many  a wistful  glance, 
or  lingering  look,  followed  the  odorous  scents,  as  humbler 
menials  received  the  viands  to  transport  them  into  the  more 
secret  recesses  of  the  building.  Notwithstanding  the  life 
and  hctivity  which  prevailed,  every  movement  was  conducted 
in  silence  and  regularity  ; the  whole  of  the  lively  scene 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


33* 

affording  a happy  illustration  of  the  virtues  and  harmony  of 
order. 

Within  the  walls  of  that  apartment,  to  which  every  eye 
seemed  directed  as  to  a common  centre,  in  anticipation  of 
the  slightest  wish  of  those  who  revelled  there,  all  was  bright 
and  cheerful.  The  hearth  knew  no  want  of  fuel  ; the 
coarser  workmanship  of  the  floor  was  hid  beneath  rich  and 
ample  carpets,  while  the  windows  were  nearly  lost  within 
the  sweeping  folds  of  curtains  of  figured  damask.  Every- 
thing wore  an  air  of  exquisite  comfort,  blended  with  a 
species  of  careless  elegance.  Even  the  most  minute  article 
of  the  furniture  had  been  transported  from  that  distant 
country,  which  was  then  thought  to  monopolize  all  the  cun- 
ning arts  of  handicraft,  to  administer  to  the  pleasures  of 
those  who,  however  careless  of  themselves  in  moments  of 
trial,  courted  the  most  luxurious  indulgences  in  their  hours 
of  ease. 

Along  the  centre  of  this  gay  apartment  was  spread  the 
hospitable  board  of  the  entertainer.  It  was  surrounded  by 
men  in  the  trappings  of  high  military  rank,  though  here 
and  there  might  be  seen  a guest,  whose  plainer  attire  and 
dejected  countenance  betrayed  the  presence  of  one  or  two 
of  those  misjudging  colonists,  whose  confidence  in  the  resist- 
less power  of  the  crown  began  already  to  waver.  The  lieu- 
tenant of  the  king  held  his  wonted  place  at  the  banquet, 
his  dark  visage  expressing  all  the  heartiness  of  a soldier’s 
welcome,  while  he  pointed  out  this  or  that  favorite  amongst 
an  abundant  collection  of  wines,  that  included  the  choicest 
liquors  of  Europe. 

‘ 4 For  those  who  share  the  mess  of  a British  general,  you 
have  encountered  rude  fare  to-day,  gentlemen,”  he  cried; 
“though,  after  all,  ’tis  such  as  a British  soldier  knows  how 
to  fatten  on,  in  the  service  of  his  master.  Fill,  gentlemen, 
fill  in  royal  bumpers  ; for  we  have  neglected  our  allegiance.” 

Each  glass  now  stood  sparkling  and  overcharged  with 
wine,  when,  after  a short  and  solemn  pause,  the  host  pro- 
nounced aloud  the  magical  words, — “The  King.”  Every 
voice  echoed  the  name,  after  which  there  literally  succeeded 
% breathless  pause  ; when  an  old  man,  in  the  uniform  of  an 


352 


Lionel  Lincoln 


officer  of  the  fleet,  first  proving  his  loyalty  by  flourishing  on 
high  his  inverted  glass,  added,  with  hearty  will, — 

‘ ‘ God  bless  him  ! ’ ’ 

“ God  bless  him  ! ” repeated  the  graceful  leader,  who  has 
already  been  more  than  once  named  in  these  pages  ; 4 4 and 
grant  him  a long  and  glorious  reign ; and,  should  there  be 
no  treason  in  the  wish,  in  death,  a Grave  like  yourself, 
worthy  admiral, — ‘Sepulcrum  sine  sordibus  extrue. ’ ” 
“Like  me!”  echoed  the  blunt  seaman,  whose  learning 
was  somewhat  impaired  by  hard  and  long  service ; “I  am, 
it  is  true,  none  of  your  cabin-window  gentry  ; but  his  ma- 
jesty might  stoop  lower  than  by  favoring  a faithful  servant, 
like  me,  with  his  gracious  presence.’ ’ 

“Your  pardon,  sir;  I should  have  included,  ‘ permissum 
arbitrio.’  ” 

The  equivoque  had  barely  excited  a smile,  when  the  se- 
date countenance  of  the  commander-in-chief  indicated  that 
the  subject  was  too  serious  for  a jest.  Nor  did  the  naval 
chieftain  appear  to  relish  the  unknown  tongue  ; for,  quite  as 
much,  if  not  a little  more,  offended  with  the  liberty  taken 
with  his  own  name,  than  with  the  privileged  person  of  the 
sovereign,  he  somewhat  smartly  retorted, — 

“ Permitted  or  not  permitted,  I command  the  fleet  of  his 
majesty  in  these  waters,  and  it  shall  be  noted  as  a cheerful 
day  in  our  log-books,  when  you  gentlemen  of  the  army  dis- 
miss us  to  our  duty  again,  on  the  high  seas.  A sailor  will 
grow  as  tired  of  doing  nothing,  as  ever  a soldier  did  of 
work,  and  I should  like  ‘ elbow-room,  ’ even  in  my  coffin — 
ha,  ha,  ha  ! — what  d ’ye  think  of  that,  master  wit?  ha,  ha, 
ha  ! — what  d ’ye  say  to  that  ? ’’ 

“ Quite  fair,  well  deserved,  and  cuttingly  severe,  admiral,’’ 
returned  the  undisturbed  soldier,  smiling  with  perfect  self- 
possession,  as  he  sipped  his  wine.  “ But  as  you  find  con- 
finement and  leisure  so  irksome,  I will  presume  to  advise 
your  seizing  some  of  these  impudent  Yankees,  who  look  into 
the  port  so  often,  not  only  robbing  us  of  our  stores,  but  offend- 
ing so  many  loyal  eyes  with  their  traitorous  presence.” 

“ I command  a parley  to  be  beaten,”  interrupted  the  com- 
mander-in chief,  “ and  a truce  to  further  hostilities.  Where 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


353 


all  have  done  their  duty,  and  have  done  it  so  well,  even  wit 
must  respect  their  conduct.  Let  me  advise  you  to  sound 
the  contents  of  that  dusty-looking  bottle,  Mr.  Graves  ; I 
think  you  will  approve  the  situation  as  an  anchorage  for  the 
night.  ” 

The  honest  old  seaman  instantly  drowned  his  displeasure 
in  a glass  of  the  generous  liquor,  and,  smacking  his  lips  after 
the  potations,  for  he  repeated  the  first  on  the  moment,  he 
exclaimed, — 

“ Ah  ! you  are  too  stationary,  by  half,  to  stir  up  the  soul 
of  your  liquors.  Wine  should  never  slumber  on  its  lees  un- 
til it  has  been  well  rolled  in  the  trough  of  a sea  for  a few 
months  ; then,  indeed,  you  may  set  it  asleep,  and  yourself 
by  the  side  of  it,  if  you  like  a cat’s  nap.” 

‘ ‘ As  orthodox  a direction  for  the  ripening  of  wine  as  was 
ever  given  by  a bishop  to  his  butler!”  exclaimed  his  ad- 
versary. Another  significant  glance  from  his  dark-looking 
superior  again  checked  his  wilful  playfulness,  when  Howe 
profited  by  the  silence,  to  say  with  the  frank  air  of  a liberal 
host, — 

“ As  motion  is,  just  now,  denied  us,  the  only  means  I can 
devise,  to  prevent  my  wine  from  slumbering  on  its  lees,  is  to 
drink  it.  ’ ’ 

“ Besides  which,  we  are  threatened  with  a visit  from  Mr. 
Washington,  and  his  thirsty  followers,  who  may  save  us  all 
trouble  in  the  matter,  unless  we  prove  industrious.  In  such 
a dilemma,  Mr.  Graves  will  not  hesitate  to  pledge  me  in  a 
glass,  though  it  should  be  only  to  disappoint  the  rebels  ! ” 
added  Burgoyne,  making  a graceful  inclination  to  the  half- 
offended  seaman. 

‘ * Ay,  ay,  I would  do  much  more  disagreeable  things  to 
cheat  the  rascals  of  their  plunder,”  returned  the  mollified 
admiral,  good-naturedly  nodding  his  head  before  he  swal- 
lowed his  bumper.  ‘ ‘ If  there  be  any  real  danger  of  the 
loss  of  such  liquid  amber  as  this,  ’t  would  be  as  well  to  send 
it  alongside  my  ship,  and  I will  hoist  it  in,  and  find  it  a 
berth,  though  it  shares  my  own  cot.  I believe  I command 
a fortress  which  neither  Yankee,  Frenchman,  nor  Don, 

would  like  to  besiege,  unless  at  a respectful  distance,” 

23 


354 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


The  officers  around  him  looked  exceedingly  grave,  ex- 
changing glances  of  great  meaning,  though  all  continued 
silent,  as  if  the  common  subject  of  their  meditations  was  too 
delicate  to  be  loudly  uttered  in  such  a presence.  At  length, 
the  second  in  command,  who  still  felt  the  coldness  of  his 
superior,  and  who  had,  hitherto,  said  nothing  during  the 
idle  dialogue,  ventured  a remark,  with  the  gravity  and  dis- 
tance of  a man  who  was  not  certain  of  his  welcome. 

“Our  enemies  grow  bold  as  the  season  advances,”  he 
said,  “ and  it  is  past  a doubt  that  they  will  find  us  em- 
ployment in  the  coming  summer.  It  cannot  be  denied 
but  they  conduct  themselves  with  great  steadiness  in  all 
their  batteries,  especially  in  this  last,  at  the  water-side  ; 
nor  am  I without  apprehension  that  they  will  yet  get 
upon  the  islands,  and  render  the  situation  of  the  shipping 
hazardous.” 

“Get  upon  the  islands!  drive  the  fleet  from  their  an-  i 
chors  ! ” exclaimed  the  veteran  sailor,  in  undisguised  amaze- 
ment.  “ I shall  account  it  a happy  day  for  England,  when  I 
Washington  and  his  rabble  trust  themselves  within  reach  of 
our  shot ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ God  grant  us  a chance  at  the  rascals  with  the  bayonet 
in  the  open  field,”  cried  Howe,  “ and  an  end  of  these  winter- 
quarters  ! I say  winter-quarters,  for  I trust  no  gentleman 
can  consider  this  army  as  besieged  by  a mob  of  armed  peas- 
ants ! We  hold  the  town,  and  they  the  country  ; but  when  : 
the  proper  time  shall  come — well,  sir,  your  pleasure,  he;j 
continued,  interrupting  himself  to  speak  to  an  upper  servant 
at  his  elbow. 

The  man,  who  had  stood  for  more  than  a minute,  in  an 
attitude  of  respectful  attention,  anxious  to  catch  the  eye  of 
his  master,  muttered  his  message  in  a low  and  hurried  voice, 
as  if  unwilling  to  be  heard  by  others,  and  at  the  same  time 
conscious  of  the  impropriety  of  whispering.  Most  of  those  j 
around  him  turned  their  heads  in  polite  indifference  ; but  I 
the  old  sailor,  who  sat  too  near  to  be  totally  deaf,  had  I 
caught  the  words,  “ a lady,”  which  was  quite  enough  to  pro-  j 
voke  all  his  merriment,  after  such  a free  indulgence  of  the 
bottle.  Striking  his  hand  smartly  on  the  table,  he  ex- 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


355 


claimed,  with  a freedom  that  no  other  present  could  have 
presumed  to  use, — 

‘ ‘ A sail  ! a sail  ! by  George,  a sail ! under  what  colors, 
friend?  king’s  or  rebels’  ? Here  has  been  a blunder,  with 
a vengeance  ! The  cook  has  certainly  been  too  late,  or  the 
lady  is  too  early  ! ha,  ha,  ha  ! — O ! you  are  wicked  free 
livers  in  the  army  ! ” 

The  tough  old  tar  enjoyed  his  joke  exceedingly,  chuckling 
with  inward  delight  at  his  discovery.  He  was,  however, 
alone  in  his  merriment,  none  of  the  soldiers  venturing  to 
understand  his  allusions,  any  further  than  by  exchanging  a 
few  stolen  looks  of  unusual  archness.  Howe  bit  his  lips 
with  obvious  vexation,  and  sternly  ordered  the  man  to 
repeat  his  errand  in  a voice  that  was  more  audible. 

“A  lady,”  said  the  trembling  menial,  “ wishes  to  see 
your  excellency,  and  she  waits  your  pleasure,  sir,  in  the 
library.” 

“ Among  his  books,  too  ! ” shouted  the  admiral  ; “ that 
would  have  better  become  you,  my  joking  friend  ! I say, 
young  man,  is  the  girl  young  and  handsome  ? ” 

“By  the  lightness  of  her  step,  sir,  I should  think  her 
young  ; but  her  face  was  concealed  under  a hood.” 

“Ay  ! ay  ! the  jade  comes  hooded  into  the  house  of  the 
king  ! Damn  me,  Howe,  but  modesty  is  getting  to  be  a rare 
virtue  amongst  you  gentlemen  on  shore  ! ’ ’ 

“ ’Tis  a plain  case  against  you,  sir,  for  even  the  servant, 
as  you  find,  has  detected  that  she  is  light  of  carriage,”  said 
the  smiling  Burgoyne,  making  half  a motion  towards  rising. 
“ It  is  probably  some  applicant  for  relief,  or  for  permission 
to  depart  the  place.  Suffer  me  to  see  her,  and  spare  your- 
self the  pain  of  a refusal.” 

“ Not  at  all,”  said  Howe,  gaining  his  feet  with  an  alacrity 
that  anticipated  the  more  deliberate  movement  of  the  other : 

‘ ‘ I should  be  unworthy  of  the  trust  I hold,  could  I not  lend 
an  occasional  ear  to  a petition.  Gentlemen,  as  there  is  a 
lady  in  the  case,  I presume  to  trespass  on  your  indulgence. 
Admiral,  I commend  you  to  my  butler,  who  is  a worthy  fel- 
low, and  can  give  you  all  the  cruises  of  the  bottle  before  you, 
since  it  left  the  island  of  Madeira.” 


356 


Xionei  Xincoln 


He  inclined  his  head  to  his  guests,  and  passed  from  the 
room  with  a hurried  step,  that  did  not  altogether  consult 
appearances.  As  he  proceeded  through  the  hall,  his  ears 
were  saluted  by  another  burst  from  the  hearty  old  seaman, 
who,  however,  enjoyed  his  humor  alone,  the  rest  of  the 
party  immediately  turning  to  other  subjects,  with  well-bred 
dulness.  On  entering  the  room  already  mentioned,  Howe 
found  himself  in  the  presence  of  the  female,  who,  notwith- 
standing their  apparent  indifference,  was  at  that  very  mo- 
ment occupying  the  thoughts,  and  exercising  the  ingenuity 
of  every  man  he  had  left  behind  him.  Advancing  at  once 
to  the  centre  of  the  apartment,  with  the  ease  and  freedom  of 
a soldier  who  felt  himself  without  a superior,  he  asked,  with 
a politeness  somewhat  equivocal, — 

“ Why  am  I favored  with  this  visit  ? and  why  has  a lady, 
whose  appearance  shows  she  might  command  friends  at  any 
time,  assumed  this  personal  trouble  ? ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Because  I am  a supplicant  for  a favor  that  might  be 
denied  to  one  who  petitioned  coldly,' ’ returned  a soft,  trem- 
ulous voice,  deep  within  the  covering  of  a silken  calash. 
“ As  time  is  wanting  to  observe  the  usual  forms  of  applica- 
tions, I have  presumed  to  come  in  person,  to  prevent  delay." 

“ And  surely,  one  like  you  can  have  little  reason  to  dread 
a repulse,"  said  Howe,  with  an  attempt  at  gallantry,  that 
would  have  better  become  the  man  who  had  offered  to  be 
his  substitute.  While  speaking,  he  advanced  a step  nigher 
to  the  lady,  and  pointing  to  her  hood,  he  continued  : "Would 
it  not  be  wise  to  aid  your  request  with  a view  of  a counte- 
nance that  I am  certain  can  speak  better  than  any  words  ? 
whom  have  I the  honor  to  receive,  and  what  may  be  the 
nature  of  her  business  ? 9 9 

"A  wife,  who  seeks  her  husband,"  returned  the  female, 
dropping  the  folds  of  her  calash,  and  exposing  to  his  steady 
eyes  the  commanding  loveliness  of  the  chaste  countenance 
of  Cecil.  The  sudden  annunciation  of  her  character  was 
forced  from  the  lips  of  the  unclaimed  bride,  by  the  freedom 
of  a gaze  to  which  she  was  unused  ; but  the  instant  she  had 
spoken,  her  eyes  fell  on  the  floor  in  embarrassment,  and  she 
stood  deeply  blushing  at  the  strength  of  her  own  language, 


Xtonel  Xfncolit 


357 


though  preserving  all  the  apparent  composure  and  dignity 
of  female  pride.  The  English  general  regarded  her  beauty 
for  a moment,  with  a pleased,  though  doubting  eye,  before* 
he  continued, — 

“ Is  he  whom  you  seek  within  or  without  the  town  ? ” 

“ I much  fear  without  ! 

‘ ‘ And  you  would  follow  him  into  the  camp  of  the  rebels  ? 
This  is  a case  that  may  require  some  deliberation.  I feel 
assured  I entertain  a lady  of  great  beauty  ; might  I ; in 
addition,  know  how  to  address  her?  ” 

“ For  my  name  I can  have  no  reason  to  blush,’ * said 
Cecil,  proudly  ; “ ’t  is  noble  in  the  land  of  our  common  an- 
cestors, and  may  have  reached  the  ears  of  Mr.  Howe — I am 
the  child  of  the  late  Colonel  Dynevor  ! ’ ’ 

“ The  niece  of  Ford  Cardonnel  ! ” exclaimed  her  auditor, 
in  amazement,  instantly  losing  the  equivocal  freedom  of  his 
manner  in  an  air  of  deep  respect : “ I have  long  known  that 
Boston  contained  such  a lady  ; nor  do  I forget  that  she  is 
accused  of  concealing  herself  from  the  attentions  of  the 
army,  like  one  of  the  most  obdurate  of  our  foes — attentions 
which  every  man  in  the  garrison  would  be  happy  to  show 
her,  from  myself  down  to  the  lowest  ensign.  Do  me  the 
honor  to  be  seated.” 

Cecil  bowed  her  acknowledgments,  but  continued  standing. 

‘ ‘ I have  neither  time  nor  spirits  to  defend  myself  from 
such  an  imputation,”  she  answered;  “though,  should  my 
own  name  prove  no  passport  to  your  favor,  I must  claim  it 
in  behalf  of  him  I seek.” 

“Should  he  be  the  veriest  rebel  in  the  train  of  Washing- 
ton, he  has  great  reason  to  be  proud  of  his  fortune  ! ” 

‘ ‘ So  far  from  ranking  among  the  enemies  of  the  king,  he 
has  already  been  lavish  of  his  blood  in  behalf  of  the  crown,” 
returned  Cecil,  unconsciously  raising  the  calash  again,  with 
maiden  bashfulness,  as  she  felt  the  moment  was  approaching 
when  she  must  declare  the  name  of  the  man,  whose  influence 
over  her  feelings  she  had  already  avowed. 

“ And  he  is  called — ” 

The  answer  was  given  to  this  direct  question  in  a low, 
but  distinct  voice.  Howe  started  when  he  heard  the  well- 


358 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


known  name  of  an  officer  of  so  much  consideration,  though 
a meaning  smile  lighted  his  dark  features,  as  he  repeated 
her  words  in  surprise, — 

“ Major  Lincoln  ! his  refusal  to  return  to  Europe,  in  search 
of  health,  is  then  satisfactorily  explained  ! Without  the 
town,  did  you  say  ? There  must  be  some  error." 

‘ ‘ I fear  it  is  too  true.  ' ' 

The  harsh  features  of  the  leader  contracted  again  into 
their  sternest  look,  and  it  was  apparent  how  much  he  was 
disturbed  by  the  intelligence. 

“This  is  presuming  too  far  on  his  privilege,"  he  mut- 
tered, in  an  under-tone.  “ Left  the  place,  say  you,  without 
my  knowledge  and  approbation,  young  lady  ? 9 ' 

“ But  on  no  unworthy  errand  ! " cried  the  almost  breath- 
less Cecil,  instantly  losing  sight  of  herself  in  her  anxiety  for 
Lionel.  “Private  sorrows  have  driven  him  to  an  act  that, 
at  another  time,  he  would  be  the  first  to  condemn,  as  a 
soldier. 9 9 

Howe  maintained  a cool,  but  threatening  silence,  that 
was  far  more  appalling  than  any  words  could  be.  The 
alarmed  wife  gazed  at  his  lowering  face  for  a minute,  as  if 
to  penetrate  his  secret  thoughts  ; then  yielding,  with  the 
sensitiveness  of  a woman,  to  her  worst  apprehensions,  she 
cried, — 

“ O ! you  would  not  avail  yourself  of  this  confession  to 
do  him  harm  ! Has  he  not  bled  for  you — lingered  for 
months  on  the  verge  of  the  grave,  in  defence  of  your  cause 
— and  will  you  now  doubt  him?  Nay,  sir,  though  chance 
and  years  may  have  subjected  him,  for  a time,  to  your  con- 
trol, he  is  every  way  your  equal,  and  will  confront  each 
charge  before  his  royal  master,  let  who  may  bring  them 
against  his  spotless  name  ! 9 ’ 

“ 'Twill  be  necessary,"  the  other  coldly  replied. 

“ Nay,  hearken  not  to  my  weak,  unmeaning  words,"  con- 
tinued Cecil,  wringing  her  hands  in  doubting  distress  : “I 
know  not  what  I say.  He  has  your  permission  to  hold 
intercourse  with  the  country  weekly  ? ' ' 

“For  the  purpose  of  obtaining  the  supplies  necessary  to 
his  past  condition." 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


359 


“And  may  he  not  have  gone  on  such  an  errand,  and 
under  favor  of  the  flag  you  yourself  have  cheerfully  ac- 
corded ? ” j 

‘ ‘ In  such  a case,  would  I not  have  been  spared  the  pain 
of  this  interview  ? 9 9 

Cecil  paused  a moment,  and  seemed  collecting  her  scat- 
tered faculties,  and  preparing  her  mind  for  some  serious 
purpose.  After  a little  time,  she  attempted  a painful  smile, 
saying,  more  calmly, — 

‘ ‘ I had  presumed  too  far  on  military  indulgence,  and  was 
even  weak  enough  to  believe  the  request  would  be  granted 
to  my  name  and  situation.” 

“No  name,  no  situation,  no  circumstances,  can  ever  ren- 
der—’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Speak  not  the  cruel  words,  lest  they  once  more  drive 
me  from  my  recollection,”  interrupted  Cecil.  “ First,  hear 
me,  sir  : listen  to  a wife  and  a daughter,  and  you  will  recall 
the  cruel  sentence.” 

Without  waiting  for  a reply,  she  advanced  with  a firm 
and  proud  step  to  the  door  of  the  room,  passing  her  aston- 
ished companion  with  an  eye  and  a face  beaming  with  the 
fulness  of  her  object.  In  the  outer  passage,  she  beckoned 
from  among  the  loiterers  in  the  hall,  to  the  stranger  who 
had  accompanied  her  in  the  visit  to  the  warehouse  ; and 
when  he  had  approached,  and  entered  the  room,  the  door 
once  more  closed,  leaving  the  spectators  without  wondering 
whence  such  a vision  of  purity  could  have  made  its  way 
within  the  sullied  walls  of  Province  House. 

Many  long  and  impatient  minutes  were  passed  by  the 
guests  in  the  banque ting-room,  during  the  continuance  of 
this  mysterious  interview.  The  jests  of  the  admiral  began 
to  flag,  just  as  his  companions  were  inclined  to  think  they 
were  most  merited,  and  the  conversation  assumed  that 
broken  and  disjointed  character  which  betrays  the  wander- 
ing of  the  speakers’  thoughts. 

At  length  a bell  rang,  and  orders  came  from  the  com- 
mander-in-chief to  clear  the  hall  of  its  curious  idlers.  When 
none  were  left  but  the  regular  domestics  of  the  family,  Howe 
appeared,  supporting  Cecil,  closely  hooded,  to  the  convey- 


3 6o 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


ance  that  awaited  her  presence  at  the  gate.  The  air  of  their 
master  communicated  a deep  respect  to  the  manners  of  the 
observant  menials,  who  crowded  about  their  persons,  to  aid 
the  departure,  with  officious  zeal.  The  amazed  sentinels 
dropped  their  arms,  with  the  usual  regularity,  to  their  chief- 
tain, as  he  passed  to  the  outer  portal  in  honor  of  his  unknown 
companion,  and  eyes  met  the  expressive  glances  of  eyes,  as 
all  who  witnessed  the  termination  of  this  visit  sought,  in 
the  countenances  of  those  around  them,  some  solution  of  its 
object. 

When  Howe  resumed  his  seat  at  the  table,  another  at- 
tempt was  made  by  the  admiral  to  renew  the  subject ; but 
it  was  received  with  an  air  so  cold,  and  a look  so  pointedly 
severe,  that  even  the  careless  son  of  the  ocean  forgot  his 
humor  under  the  impression  of  so  dark  a frown. 


CHAPTER  XXIX. 


Nor  martial  shout,  nor  minstrel  tone, 

Announced  their  march.” 

Scott. 

CECIL  suffered  the  night  to  advance  a little,  before 
she  left  Tremont  Street,  to  profit  by  the  permission 
to  leave  the  place  her  communication  had  obtained 
from  the  English  general.  It  was,  however,  far 
from  late  when  she  took  leave  of  Agnes,  and  commenced  her 
expedition,  still  attended  by  Meriton  and  the  unknown  man, 
with  whom  she  has  already,  more  than  once,  made  her  ap- 
pearance in  our  pages.  At  the  lower  part  of  the  town  she 
left  her  vehicle,  and  pursuing  the  route  of  several  devious 
and  retired  streets,  soon  reached  the  margin  of  the  water. 
The  wharves  were  deserted  and  still.  Indicating  the  course, 
by  her  own  light  and  hurried  footsteps,  to  her  companions, 
the  youthful  bride  moved  unhesitatingly  along  the  rough 
planks,  until  her  progress  was  checked  by  a large  basin 
between  two  of  the  ordinary  wooden  piers  which  line  the 
vShores  of  the  place.  Here  she  paused  for  a moment,  in 
doubt,  as  if  fearful  there  had  been  some  mistake,  when  the 
figure  of  a boy  was  seen  advancing  out  of  the  shadows  of  a 
neighboring  storehouse. 

“ I fear  you  have  lost  your  way,”  he  said,  when  within  a 
few  feet  of  her,  where  he  stood  apparently  examining  the 
party  with  rigid  scrutiny.  ” May  I venture  to  ask  whom  or 
what  you  seek  ? ’ 9 

“ One  who  is  sent  hither  on  private  duty,  by  orders  from 
the  commander-in-chief.” 


362 


Xlonel  Xincoln 


“ I see  but  two,”  returned  the  lad,  hesitating,  “ where  is 
the  third?” 

“ He  lingers  in  the  distance,”  said  Cecil,  pointing  to 
Meriton,  whose  footsteps  were  much  more  guarded  than 
those  of  his  mistress.  ‘ ‘ Three  is  our  number,  and  we  are 
all  present. ’ ’ 

“I  beg  a thousand  pardons,”  returned  the  youth,  drop- 
ping the  folds  of  a sailor’s  overcoat,  under  which  he  had 
concealed  the  distinguishing  marks  of  a naval  dress,  and 
raising  his  hat  at  the  same  moment,  with  great  respect ; 
“my  orders  were  to  use  the  utmost  precaution,  ma’am,  for, 
as  you  hear,  the  rebels  sleep  but  little  to-night.” 

“ ’Tisa  dreadful  scene  I leave,  truly,  sir,”  returned  Cecil, 
“ and  the  sooner  it  will  suit  your  convenience  to  transport 
us  from  it,  the  greater  will  be  the  obligation  you  are  about 
to  confer.” 

The  youth  once  more  bowed,  in  submission  to  her  wishes, 
and  requested  the  whole  party  to  follow  whither  he  should 
lead.  Avery  few  moments  brought  them  to  a pair  of  water- 
stairs,  where,  under  cover  of  the  duskiness  thrown  upon 
the  basin  from  the  wharf,  a boat  lay  concealed,  in  perfect 
readiness  to  receive  them. 

“Be  stirring,  boys!”  cried  the  youth,  in  atone  of  au- 
thority : “ ship  your  oars  as  silently  as  if  stealing  away  from 
an  enemy.  Have  the  goodness,  ma’am,  to  enter,  and  you 
shall  have  a quick  and  safe  landing  on  the  other  shore, 
whatever  may  be  the  reception  of  the  rebels.” 

Cecil  and  her  two  attendants  complied  without  delay, 
when  the  boat  glided  into  the  stream  with  a velocity  that 
promised  a speedy  verification  of  the  words  of  the  midship- 
man. The  most  profound  stillness  reigned  among  these 
nocturnal  adventurers,  and  by  the  time  they  had  rowed  a 
short  distance,  the  bride  began  to  lose  an  immediate  con- 
sciousness of  her  situation  in  contemplation  of  the  scene. 

The  evening  was  already  milder,  and  by  one  of  those 
sudden  changes,  peculiar  to  the  climate,  it  was  rapidly  be- 
coming even  bland  and  pleasant.  The  light  of  a clear  moon 
fell  upon  the  town  and  harbor,  rendering  the  objects  of 
both  visible,  in  mellowed  softness.  The  hugh  black  hulls 


Xtonel  ^Lincoln 


363 


of  the  vessels  of  war  rested  sullenly  on  the  waters,  like 
slumbering  leviathans,  without  even  a sail  or  a passing  boat, 
except  their  own,  to  enliven  the  view  in  the  direction  of  the 
port.  On  the  other  hand,  the  hills  of  the  town  rose,  in 
beautiful  relief,  against  the  clear  sky,  with  here  and  there  a 
roof  or  a steeple  reflecting  the  pale  light  of  the  moon.  The 
bosom  of  the  place  was  as  quiet  as  if  its  inhabitants  were 
buried  in  midnight  sleep  ; but  behind  the  hills,  in  a circuit 
extending  from  the  works  on  the  heights  of  Charlestown, 
to  the  neck,  which  lay  in  open  view  of  the  boat,  there 
existed  all  the  evidences  of  furious  warfare.  During  the 
few  preceding  nights  the  Americans  had  been  more  than 
commonly  diligent  in  the  use  of  their  annoyances,  but 
now  they  appeared  to  expend  their  utmost  energies  upon 
their  enemies.  Still  they  spared  the  town,  directing  the 
weight  of  their  fire  at  the  different  batteries  which  protected 
the  approaches  to  the  place,  as  already  described,  along  the 
western  borders  of  the  peninsula. 

The  ears  of  Cecil  had  long  been  accustomed  to  the  uproar 
of  arms,  but  this  was  the  first  occasion  in  which  she  was 
ever  a witness  of  the  mingled  beauties  and  terrors  of  a can- 
nonade at  night.  Suffering  the  calash  to  fall,  she  shook 
back  the  dark  tresses  from  her  face,  and,  leaning  over  the 
sides  of  the  little  vessel,  listened  to  the  bursts  of  the  artillery, 
and  gazed  on  the  sudden  flashes  of  vivid  light  that  mocked  the 
dimmer  illumination  of  the  planet,  with  an  absorbed  atten- 
tion that  momentarily  lured  her  into  forgetfulness.  The 
men  pulled  their  light  boat  with  muffled  oars,  and  so  still 
was  its  progress,  that  there  were  instants  when  even  the 
shot  might  be  heard  rattling  among  the  ruins  they  had 
made. 

“ It ’s  amazement  to  me,  madam,”  said  Meriton,  “that  so 
many  British  generals,  and  brave  gentlemen  as  there  is  in 
Boston,  should  stay  in  such  a little  spot  to  be  shot  at  by  a 
parcel  of  countrymen,  when  there  is  Ton’ non,  as  still  and  as 
safe,  at  this  blessed  moment,  as  a parish  churchyard  at  mid- 
night ! ” 

Cecil  raised  her  eyes  at  this  interruption,  and  perceived 
the  youth  gazing  at  her  countenance  in  undisguised  admira- 


Xionel  Xincotn 


36  4 


tion  of  its  beauty.  Blushing,  and  once  more  concealing  her 
features  beneath  her  calash,  she  turned  away  from  the  view 
of  the  conflict,  in  silence. 

‘ ‘ The  rebels  are  free  with  their  gunpowder  to-night ! ’ ’ 
said  the  midshipman.  “ Some  of  their  cruisers  have  picked 
up  another  of  our  store-ships,  I fancy,  or  Mr.  Washington 
would  not  make  such  a noisy  time  of  it,  when  all  honest 
people  should  be  thinking  of  their  sleep.  Don’t  you  believe, 
ma’am,  if  the  admiral  would  warp  three  or  four  of  our 
heaviest  ships  up  into  the  channel,  back  of  the  town,  it 
would  be  a short  method  of  lowering  the  conceit  of  these 
Yankees  ? ” 

“ Really,  sir,  I am  so  little  acquainted  with  military  mat- 
ters, ’ ’ returned  Cecil,  suffering  her  anxious  features  to  relax 
into  a smile,  “that  my  opinion,  should  I venture  to  give 
one,  would  be  utterly  worthless.” 

“Why,  young  gentleman,”  said  Meriton,  “the  rebels 
drove  a galley  out  of  the  river,  a night  or  two  ago,  as  I can 
testify  myself,  having  stood  behind  a large  brick  store, 
where  I saw  the  whole  affair  most  beautifully  conducted  ! ’ ’ 
“A  very  fit  place  for  one  like  you,  no  doubt,  sir,”  re- 
turned the  midshipman,  without  attempting  to  conceal  his 
disgust  at  so  impertinent  an  interruption.  “ Do  you  know 
what  a galley  is,  ma’am?  nothing  but  a small  vessel  cut 
down,  with  a few  heavy  guns,  I do  assure  you.  It  would 
be  a very  different  affair  with  a frigate  or  a two-decker. 
Do  but  observe  what  a charming  thing  our  ship  is,  ma’am 
- — I am  sure  so  beautiful  a lady  must  know  how  to  admire 
a handsome  ship  ! — she  lies  hereaway,  nearly  in  a range 
with  the  second  island.” 

To  please  the  earnest  youth,  Cecil  bent  her  head  towards 
the  quarter  he  wished,  and  murmured  a few  words  in 
approbation  of  his  taste.  But  the  impatient  boy  had  nar- 
rowly watched  the  direction  of  her  eyes,  and  she  was  inter- 
rupted by  his  exclaiming,  in  manifest  disappointment, — 
“What!  that  shapeless  hulk,  just  above  the  castle? 
She  is  an  old  Dutch  prize,  en  flUte,  ay,  older  than  my 
grandmother,  good  old  soul ; and  it  would  n’t  matter  the 
value  of  a piece  of  junk,  into  which  end  you  stepped  her 


Xtonel  Xincolrt 


36S 


bowsprit ! One  of  my  school-fellows,  Jack  Willoughby,  is 
a reefer  on  board  her  ; and  he  says  that  they  can  just  get 
six  knots  out  of  her,  on  her  course  in  smooth  water  with  a 
fresh  breeze,  allowing  seven  knots  for  leeway  ! Jack  means 
to  get  rid  of  her  the  moment  he  can  catch  the  admiral  run- 
ning large  ; for  the  Graveses  live  near  the  Willoughbys  in 
town,  and  he  knows  all  the  soundings  about  the  old  man’s 
humor.  No,  no,  ma’am  ; Jack  would  give  every  shot  in 
his  lockers  to  swing  a hammock  between  two  of  the  beams 
of  our  ship.  Do  excuse  me  one  moment,” — presuming 
to  take  one  of  the  hands  of  Cecil,  though  with  sufficient 
delicacy,  as  he  pointed  out  his  favorite  vessel, — “there, 
ma’am,  now  you  have  her  ! she  that ’s  so  taut  rigged,  with  a 
flying-jib-boom,  and  all  her  top-gallant  yards  stopped  to  her 
lower  rigging  : we  send  them  down  every  night  at  gun-fire, 
and  cross  them  again  next  morning  as  regularly  as  the  bell 
strikes  eight.  Isn’t  she  a sweet  thing,  ma’am?  for  I see 
she  has  caught  your  eye  at  last,  and  I am  sure  you  can’t 
wish  to  look  at  any  other  ship  in  port.” 

Cecil  could  not  refuse  her  commendations  to  this  elo- 
quent appeal,  though  at  the  next  moment  she  would  have 
been  utterly  at  a loss  to  distinguish  the  much  admired  frig- 
ate from  the  despised  store-ship. 

“Ay,  ay,  madam,  I knew  you  would  like  her  when  you 
got  a fair  glimpse  at  her  proportions,  ’ ’ continued  the  de- 
lighted boy;  “though  she  is  not  half  so  beautiful  on  her 
broadside,  as  when  you  can  catch  her  tasking,  especially  on 
her  larboard  bow.  Pull  long  and  strong,  men,  and  with  a 
light  touch  of  the  water : these  Yankees  have  ears  as  long 
as  borricoes,  and  we  are  getting  in  with  the  land.  This 
set-down  at  Dorchester’s  neck  will  give  you  a long  walk, 
ma’am,  to  Cambridge  ; but  there  was  no  possibility  of  touch- 
ing the  rebels  anywhere  else  to-night,  or,  as  you  see,  we 
should  have  gone  right  into  the  face  of  their  cannon.” 

“ Is  it  not  a little  remarkable,”  said  Cecil,  willing  to  pay 
the  solicitude  of  the  boy  to  amuse  her,  by  some  reply, 
“that  the  colonists,  while  they  invest  the  town  so  closely 
on  the  north  and  west,  should  utterly  neglect  to  assail  it  on 
the  south  ? for  I believe  they  have  never  occupied  the  hills 


366 


Xionel  Xfncoltt 


in  Dorchester  at  all  ; and  yet  it  is  one  of  the  points  nearest 
to  Boston.” 

“ It  is  no  mystery  at  all,”  returned  the  boy,  shaking 
his  head  with  all  the  sagacity  of  a veteran;  “it  would 
bring  another  Bunker  Hill  about  their  ears  ; for  you  see  it 
is  the  same  thing  at  this  end  of  the  place  that  Charlestown 
neck  is  at  the  other.  A light  touch,  men,  a light  touch  ! ” 
he  continued,  dropping  his  voice,  as  they  approached  the 
shore.  “Besides,  ma’am,  a fort  on  that  hill  could  throw 
its  shot  directly  on  our  decks,  a thing  the  old  man  would 
never  submit  to  ; and  that  would  either  bring  on  a regular 
hammering  match,  or  a general  clearing  out  of  the  fleet ; 
and  then  what  would  become  of  the  army?  No,  no — the 
Yankees  would  n’t  risk  driving  the  cod-fish  out  of  their  bay, 
to  try  such  an  experiment.  Lay  on  your  oars,  boys,  while 
I take  a squint  along  this  shore,  to  see  if  there  are  any 
Jonathans  cooling  themselves  near  the  beach,  by  moon- 
light.” 

The  obedient  seamen  rested  from  their  labors,  while  their 
youthful  officer  stood  up  in  the  boat,  and  directed  a small 
night-glass  over  the  intended  place  of  landing.  The  exam- 
ination proved  entirely  satisfactory,  and,  in  a low,  cautious 
voice,  he  ordered  the  men  to  pull  into  a place  where  the 
shadow  of  the  hills  might  render  the  landing  still  less  likely 
to  be  observed. 

From  this  moment  the  most  profound  silence  was  ob- 
served, the  boat  advancing  swiftly,  though  under  perfect 
command,  to  the  desired  spot,  where  it  was  soon  heard 
grazing  upon  the  bottom,  as  it  gradually  lost  its  motion,  and 
finally  became  stationary.  Cecil  was  instantly  assisted  to  the 
land,  whither  she  was  followed  by  the  midshipman,  who 
jumped  upon  the  shore  with  great  indifference,  and  ap- 
proached the  passenger,  from  whom  he  was  now  about 
to  part. 

“ I only  hope  that  those  you  next  fall  in  with  may  know 
how  to  treat  you  as  well  as  those  you  leave,”  said  the  boy, 
approaching,  and  offering  his  hand,  with  the  frankness  of  an 
older  seaman,  to  Cecil.  “ God  bless  you,  my  dear  ma’am  : 
I have  two  little  sisters  at  home,  nearly  as  handsome  as  your- 


Xionel  Xincoltt 


367 


self ; and  I never  see  a woman  in  want  of  assistance,  but  I 
think  of  the  poor  girls  I ’ve  left  in  old  England.  God  bless 
you  once  more — I hope  when  we  meet  again,  you  will  take 
a nearer  view  of  the — ” 

“ You  are  not  likely  to  part  so  soon  as  you  imagine,” 
exclaimed  a man,  springing  on  his  feet,  from  his  place  of 
concealment  behind  a rock,  and  advancing  rapidly  on  the 
party  ; “ offer  the  least  resistance,  and  you  are  all  dead." 

4 ‘Shove  off,  men,  shove  off,  and  don’t  mind  me  ! ” cried 
the  youth,  with  admirable  presence  of  mind;  “for  God’s 
sake,  save  the  boat,  if  you  die  for  it  ! ” 

The  seamen  obeyed  with  practised  alacrity,  when  the  boy 
darted  after  them  with  the  lightness  of  his  years,  and,  mak- 
ing a desperate  leap,  caught  the  gunwale  of  the  barge,  into 
which  he  was  instantly  drawn  by  the  sailors.  A dozen 
armed  men  had  by  this  time  reached  the  edge  of  the  water, 
and  as  many  muskets  were  pointed  at  the  retreating  party, 
when  he  who  had  first  spoken,  cried, — 

“Not  a trigger  ! — the  boy  has  escaped  us,  and  he  deserves 
his  fortune.  Let  us  secure  those  who  remain ; but  if  a 
single  gun  be  fired,  it  will  only  draw  the  attention  of  the 
fleet  and  castle.” 

His  companions,  who  had  acted  with  the  hesitation  of 
men  that  were  not  assured  the  course  they  took  was  correct, 
willingly  dropped  the  muzzles  of  their  pieces,  and  in  an- 
other instant  the  boat  was  ploughing  its  way  towards  the 
much-admired  frigate,  at  a distance  which  would  probably 
have  rendered  their  fire  quite  harmless.  Cecil  had  hardly 
breathed  during  the  short  period  of  uncertainty  ; but  when 
the  sudden  danger  was  passed,  she  prepared  herself  to 
receive  their  captors  with  the  perfect  confidence  which  an 
American  woman  seldom  fails  to  feel  in  the  mildness  and 
reason  of  her  countrymen.  The  whole  party,  who  now 
approached  her,  were  dressed  in  the  ordinary  habiliments 
of  husbandmen,  mingled,  in  a slight  degree,  with  the  more 
martial  accoutrements  of  soldiers.  They  were  armed  with 
muskets  only,  which  they  wielded  like  men  acquainted  with 
all  the  uses  of  the  weapon,  at  the  same  time  that  they 
were  unaccustomed  to  the  mere  manual  of  the  troops. 


368 


^Lionel  Xxncolrt 


Every  fibre  of  the  body  of  Meriton,  however,  shook  with 
fear,  as  he  found  this  unexpected  guard  encircling  their 
little  party ; nor  did  the  unknown  man  who  had  accom- 
panied them  appear  entirely  free  from  apprehension.  The 
bride  still  maintained  her  self-possession,  supported  either 
by  her  purpose,  or  her  greater  familiarity  with  the  char- 
acter of  the  people  into  whose  hands  she  had  fallen. 

When  the  whole  party  were  posted  within  a few  feet  of 
them,  they  dropped  the  butts  of  their  muskets  on  the 
ground,  and  stood  patient  listeners  to  the  ensuing  examina- 
tion. The  leader  of  the  party,  who  was  only  distinguished 
from  his  companions  by  a green  cockade  in  his  hat,  which 
Cecil  had  heard  was  the  symbol  of  a subaltern  officer 
among  the  American  troops,  addressed  her  in  a calm,  but 
steady  tone, — 

“It  is  unpleasant  to  question  a woman,”  he  said,  “and 
especially  one  of  your  appearance ; but  duty  requires  it  of 
me.  What  brings  you  to  this  unfrequented  point,  in  the 
boat  of  a king’s  ship,  and  at  this  unusual  hour  of  the 
night?” 

“ I come  with  no  intent  to  conceal  my  visit  from  any 
eyes,”  returned  Cecil  ; “for  my  first  wish  is  to  be  conducted 
to  some  officer  of  rank,  to  whom  I will  explain  my  object. 
There  are  many  that  I should  know,  who  will  not  hesitate 
to  believe  my  words.” 

“We  none  of  us  profess  to  doubt  your  truth  ; we  only  act 
with  caution,  because  it  is  required  by  circumstances.  Can- 
not the  explanation  be  made  to  me  ? for  I dislike  the  duty 
that  causes  trouble  to  a female.” 

“’Tis  impossible!”  said  Cecil,  involuntarily  shrinking 
within  the  folds  of  her  mantle. 

“You  come  at  a most  unfortunate  moment,”  said  the 
other,  musing  ; “ and  I fear  you  will  pass  an  uneasy  night, 
in  consequence.  By  your  tongue  I think  you  are  an 
American  ? ’ ’ 

4 ‘ I was  born  among  those  roofs,  which  you  may  see  on 
the  opposite  peninsula.” 

“Then  we  are  of  the  same  town,”  returned  the  officer, 
stepping  back  in  a vain  attempt  to  get  a glimpse  of  those 


Lionel  Lincoln 


369 


features  which  were  concealed  beneath  the  hood.  He  made 
no  attempt,  however,  to  remove  the  silk  ; nor  did  he  in  the 
slightest  manner  convey  any  wish  of  a nature  that  might  be 
supposed  to  wound  the  delicacy  of  her  sex;  but  finding 
himself  unsuccessful,  he  turned  away,  as  he  added,  44  And  I 
grow  tired  of  remaining  where  I can  see  the  smoke  of  my 
own  chimneys,  at  the  same  time  I know  that  strangers  are 
seated  around  the  hearths  below  ! ’ 1 

44  None  wish  more  fervently  than  I,  that  the  moment  had 
arrived  when  each  might  enjoy  his  own,  in  peace  and  quiet- 
ness.’ ’ 

“Let  the  Parliament  repeal  their  laws,  and  the  king 
recall  his  troops,”  said  one  of  the  men,  “ and  there  will  be 
an  end  of  the  struggle  at  once.  We  don’t  fight  because  we 
love  to  shed  blood.” 

“ He  would  do  both,  friend,  if  the  counsel  of  one  so  in- 
significant as  I could  find  weight  in  his  royal  mind.” 

4 4 I believe  there  is  not  much  difference  between  a royal 
mind  and  that  of  any  other  man,  when  the  devil  gets  hold 
of  it ! ” bluntly  exclaimed  another  of  the  party.  “I’ve  a 
notion  the  imp  is  as  mischievous  with  a king  as  with  a 
cobbler.” 

4 4 Whatever  I may  think  of  the  conduct  of  his  ministers,  ’ ’ 
aaid  Cecil,  coldly,  “’tis  unpleasant  to  me  to  discuss  the 
personal  qualities  of  my  sovereign.” 

‘ ‘ Why,  I meant  no  offence  ; though,  when  the  truth  is 
uppermost  in  a man’s  thoughts,  he  is  apt  to  let  it  out,”  re- 
turned the  soldier.  After  this  uncouth  apology,  he  con- 
tinued silent,  turning  away  like  one  who  felt  dissatisfied 
with  himself  for  what  he  had  done. 

In  the  meantime,  the  leader  had  been  consulting  with 
one  or  two  of  his  men  aside.  He  now  advanced  again,  and 
delivered  the  result  of  their  united  wisdom. 

“Under  all  circumstances,  I have  concluded,”  he  said, 
speaking  in  the  first  person,  in  deference  to  his  rank, 
though  in  fact  he  had  consented  to  change  his  own  opinion 
at  the  instigation  of  his  advisers,  4 4 to  refer  you  for  informa- 
tion to  the  nearest  general  officer,  under  the  care  of  these 

two  men,  who  will  show  you  the  way.  They  both  know 

24 


37o 


%ionc l Lincoln 


the  country,  and  there  is  not  the  least  danger  of  their  mis- 
taking the  road.” 

Cecil  bowed  in  entire  submission  to  this  characteristic 
intimation  of  his  pleasure,  and  declared  her  anxiety  to  pro- 
ceed. The  officer  held  another  short  consultation  with  the 
two  guides,  which  soon  terminated  by  his  issuing  orders  to 
the  rest  of  the  detachment  to  prepare  to  depart.  Before 
they  separated,  one  of  the  guides,  or,  more  properly,  guards, 
approached  Meriton,  and  said,  with  a deliberation  that  might 
easily  be  mistaken  for  doubt, — 

“As  we  shall  be  only  two  to  two,  friend,  will  it  not  be  as 
well  to  see  what  you  have  got  secreted  about  your  person,  as  it 
may  prevent  any  hard  words  or  difficulties  hereafter  ? You  will 
see  the  reason  of  the  thing,  I trust,  and  make  no  objection.” 
“Not  at  all,  sir,  not  at  all!”  returned  the  trembling 
valet,  producing  his  purse,  without  a moment’s  hesitation  : 
“it  is  not  heavy,  but  what  there  is  in  it,  is  of  the  best 
English  gold,  which  I expect  is  much  regarded  among  you, 
who  see  nothing  but  rebel  paper.  ’ 9 

“ Much  as  we  set  store  by  it,  we  do  not  choose  to  rob  for 
it,”  returned  the  soldier,  with  cool  contempt.  “ I wish  to 
look  for  weapons,  and  not  for  money.” 

“But,  sir,  as  I unluckily  have  no  weapons,  had  you  not 
better  take  my  money  ? There  are  ten  good  guineas,  I do 
assure  you  ; and  not  a light  one  among  them  all,  ’pon 
honor  ! besides  several  pieces  of  silver. 

“ Come,  Allen,”  said  the  other  soldier,  laughing,  “ it ’s  no 
great  matter  whether  that  gentleman  has  arms  or  not,  I 
believe.  His  comrade,  here,  who  seems  to  know  rather 
better  what  he  is  about,  has  none,  at  any  rate  ; and  for  one 
of  two  men,  I am  willing  to  trust  the  other.” 

“I  do  assure  you,”  said  Cecil,  “that  our  intentions  are 
peaceable,  and  that  your  charge  will  prove  in  no  manner 
difficult.” 

The  men  listened  to  the  earnest  tones  of  her  sweet  voice 
with  much  deference,  and  in  a few  moments  the  two  parties 
separated,  to  proceed  on  their  several  ways.  While  the 
main  body  of  the  soldiers  ascended  the  hill,  the  guides  of 
Cecil  took  a direction  which  led  them  around  its  base. 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


371 


Their  route  lay  towards  the  low  rock  which  connected  the 
heights  with  the  adjacent  country,  and  their  progress  was 
both  diligent  and  rapid.  Cecil  was  often  consulted  as  to 
her  ability  to  endure  the  fatigue,  and  repeated  offers  were 
made  to  accommodate  their  speed  to  her  wishes.  In  every 
other  respect  she  was  totally  disregarded  by  the  guides, 
who,  however,  paid  much  closer  attention  to  her  compan- 
ions, each  soldier  attaching  himself  to  one  of  her  followers, 
whom  he  constantly  regarded  with  a watchful  and  wary  eye. 

‘ ‘ You  seem  cold,  friend,  ’ ’ said  Allen  to  Meriton  ; ‘ ‘ though 
I should  call  the  night  quite  pleasant  for  the  first  week  in 
March.” 

“ Indeed,  I ’m  starved  to  the  bones  ! 99  returned  the  valet, 
with  a shivering  that  would  seem  to  verify  his  assertion. 
“ It ’s  a very  chilly  climate  is  this  of  America,  especially  of 
nights  L I never  really  felt  such  a remarkable  dampness 
about  the  throat  before,  within  memory,  I do  assure  you.” 

“ Here  is  another  handkerchief,”  said  the  soldier,  throw- 
ing him  a common  ’kerchief  from  his  pocket:  “wrap  it 
round  your  neck,  for  it  gives  me  an  ague  to  hear  your  teeth 
knocking  one  another  about  so.” 

“ I thank  you,  sir,  a thousand  times,”  said  Meriton,  pro- 
ducing his  purse  again,  with  an  instinctive  readiness ; 
‘ ‘ what  may  be  the  price  ? ’ ’ 

The  man  pricked  up  his  ears,  and  dropping  his  musket 
from  the  guarded  position  in  which  he  had  hitherto  carried 
it,  he  drew  closer  to  the  side  of  his  prisoner,  in  a very  com- 
panionable way,  as  he  replied, — 

4 ‘ I did  not  calculate  on  selling  the  article  ; but  if  you 
have  need  of  it,  I wouldn’t  wish  to  be  hard.” 

“Shall  I give  you  one  guinea,  or  two,  Mr.  Rebel?” 
asked  Meriton,  whose  faculties  were  utterly  confounded  by 
his  terror. 

“My  name  is  Allen,  friend,  and  we  like  civil  language 
in  the  Bay,  ’ ’ said  the  soldier.  ‘ ‘ Two  guineas  for  a pocket- 
handkerchief  ! I could  n’t  think  of  imposing  on  any  man  so 
much  ! ” 

“What  shall  it  be,  then — half  a guinea,  or  four  half- 
crown  pieces  ? ’ ’ 


372 


Xionel  Lincoln 


“ I didn’t  at  all  calculate  to  part  with  the  handkerchief 
when  I left  home  : it ’s  quite  new,  as  you  can  see  by  holding 
it  up,  in  this  manner,  to  the  moon  ; besides,  you  know,  now 
there  is  no  trade,  these  things  come  very  high.  Well,  if 
you  are  disposed  to  buy,  I don’t  wish  to  crowd  ; you  may 
take  it,  finally,  for  the  two  crowns.” 

Meriton  dropped  the  money  into  his  hands,  without  hesi- 
tation, and  the  soldier  pocketed  the  price,  perfectly  satisfied 
with  his  bargain  and  himself,  since  he  had  sold  his  goods  at 
a clear  profit  of  about  three  hundred  per  cent.  He  soon 
took  occasion  to  whisper  to  his  comrade,  that  in  his  opinion 
‘ ‘ he  had  made  a good  trade  ’ ’ ; and  laying  their  heads 
together,  they  determined  that  the  bargain  was  by  no  means 
a bad  windfall.  On  the  other  hand,  Meriton,  who  knew 
the  difference  in  value  between  cotton  and  silk  quite  as  well 
as  his  American  protectors,  was  equally  well  satisfied  with 
the  arrangement ; though  his  contentment  was  derived  from 
a very  different  manner  of  reasoning.  From  early  habit, 
he  had  long  been  taught  to  believe  that  every  civility,  like 
patriotism  in  the  opinion  of  Sir  Robert  Walpole,  had  its 
price ; and  his  fears  had  rendered  him  somewhat  careless 
about  the  amount  of  the  purchase  money.  He  now  con- 
sidered himself  as  having  a clear  claim  on  the  protection  of 
his  guard,  and  his  apprehensions  gradually  subsided  into 
security  under  the  soothing  impression. 

By  the  time  this  satisfactory  bargain  was  concluded,  and 
each  party  was  lawfully  put  in  possession  of  his  own,  they 
had  reached  the  low  land  already  mentioned  as  the  ” neck.” 
Suddenly  the  guard  stopped,  and  bending  forward,  in  the 
attitude  of  deep  attention,  they  seemed  to  listen,  intently,  to 
some  faint  and  distant  sounds,  that  were,  for  moments, 
audible  in  the  intervals  of  the  cannonade. 

“ They  are  coming,”  said  one  to  the  other  ; “ shall  we  go 
on,  or  wait  until  they  ’ve  passed  ? ” 

The  question  was  answered  in  a whisper,  and,  after  a 
short  consultation,  they  determined  to  proceed. 

The  attention  of  Cecil  had  been  attracted  by  this  confer- 
ence, and  the  few  words  which  had  escaped  her  guides  ; 
and,  for  the  first  time,  she  harbored  some  little  dread  as  to 


%ionc l Xincoln  37 3 


her  final  destination.  Full  of  the  importance  of  her  errand, 
the  bride  now  devoted  every  faculty  to  detect  the  least  cir- 
cumstance that  might  have  a tendency  to  defeat  it.  She* 
trode  so  lightly  on  the  faded  herbage  as  to  render  her  own 
footsteps  inaudible,  and  more  than  once  she  was  about  to 
request  the  others  to  imitate  her  example,  that  no  danger 
might  approach  them  unexpectedly.  At  length  her  doubts 
were  relieved,  though  her  wonder  was  increased,  by  dis- 
tinctly hearing  the  lumbering  sounds  of  wheels  on  the  frozen 
earth,  as  if  innumerable  groaning  vehicles  were  advancing 
with  slow  and  measured  progress.  In  another  instant  her 
eyes  assisted  the  organs  of  hearing,  and  by  the  aid  of  the 
moon  her  doubts,  if  not  her  apprehensions,  were  entirely 
removed. 

Her  guards  now  determined  on  a change  of  purpose,  and 
withdrew  with  their  prisoners  within  the  shadow  of  an 
apple-tree  that  stood  on  the  low  land,  but  a few  paces  from 
the  line  of  the  route  evidently  taken  by  the  approaching 
vehicles.  In  this  position  they  remained  for  several  min- 
utes, attentive  observers  of  what  was  passing  around  them. 

“ Our  men  have  woke  up  the  British  by  their  fire,”  said 
one  of  the  guards;  “ and  all  their  eyes  are  turned  to  the 
batteries  ! ’ ’ 

“ Yes,  it ’s  very  well  as  it  is,”  returned  his  comrade  ; “ but 
if  the  old  brass  congress  mortar  had  n’t  gi’n  way  yesterday, 
there  would  be  a different  sort  of  roaring.  Did  you  ever  see 
the  old  congress  ? ’ ’ 

“ I can’t  say  I ever  saw  the  cannon  itself,  but  I have  seen 
the  bombs  fifty  times  ; and  pokerish-looking  things  they  be, 
especially  in  a dark  night — but  hush  ! here  they  come.” 

A large  body  of  men  now  approached,  and  moved  swiftly 
past  them,  in  deepest  silence,  defiling  at  the  foot  of  the  hills, 
and  marching  towards  the  shores  of  the  peninsula.  The 
whole  of  this  party  was  attired  and  accoutred  much  in  the 
fashion  of  those  who  had  received  Cecil.  One  or  two  who 
were  mounted,  and  in  more  martial  trappings,  announced 
the  presence  of  some  officers  of  higher  rank.  At  the  very 
heels  of  this  detachment  of  soldiers  came  a great  number  of 
carts,  which  took  the  route  that  led  directly  up  to  the  neigh- 


374 


Xionel  Xincoln 


boring  heights.  After  these  came  another,  and  more  num- 
erous body  of  troops,  who  followed  the  teams,  the  whole 
moving  in  the  profoundest  stillness,  and  with  the  diligence  of 
men  who  were  engaged  in  the  most  important  undertaking. 
In  the  rear  of  the  whole,  another  collection  of  carts  appeared, 
groaning  under  the  weight  of  large  bundles  of  hay,  and 
other  military  preparations  of  defence.  Before  this  latter 
division  left  the  low  land,  immense  numbers  of  the  closely 
packed  bundles  were  tumbled  to  the  ground,  and  arranged 
with  a quickness  almost  magical,  in  such  a manner  as  to  form 
a light  breastwork  across  the  low  ground,  which  would 
otherwise  have  been  completely  exposed  to  be  swept  by  the 
shot  of  the  royal  batteries  ; a situation  of  things  that  was 
believed  to  have  led  to  the  catastrophe  of  Breed’s  the  preced- 
ing summer. 

Among  the  last  of  those  who  crossed  the  neck,  was  an 
officer  on  horseback,  whose  eye  was  attracted  by  the  group 
who  stood  as  idle  spectators  under  the  tree.  Pointing  out 
the  latter  objects  to  those  around  him,  he  rode  nigher  to  the 
party,  and  leaned  forward  in  his  saddle  to  examine  their 
persons. 

“ How ’s  this  ? ” he  exclaimed  ; “ a woman  and  two  men 
under  the  charge  of  sentinels  ! Have  we  then  more  spies 
among  us  ? Cut  away  the  tree,  men  ; we  have  need  of  it, 
and  let  in  the  light  of  the  moon  upon  them  ! ’ * 

The  order  was  hardly  given  before  it  was  executed,  and 
the  tree  felled  with  a dispatch  that,  to  any  but  an  American, 
would  appear  incredible.  Cecil  stepped  aside  from  the  im- 
pending branches,  and  by  moving  into  the  light,  betrayed  1 
the  appearance  of  a gentlewoman  by  her  mien  and  apparel. 

‘ ‘ Here  must  be  some  mistake  ! 9 1 continued  the  officer ; 

‘ ‘ why  is  the  lady  thus  guarded  ? ’ ’ 

One  of  the  soldiers,  in  a few  words,  explained  the  nature 
of  her  arrest,  and  in  return  received  directions,  anew,  how 
to  proceed.  The  mounted  officer  now  put  spurs  to  his 
horse,  and  galloped  away,  in  eager  pursuit  of  more  pressing 
duties,  though  he  still  looked  behind  him,  so  long  as  the 
deceptive  light  enabled  him  to  distinguish  either  form  or 
features. 


^Lionel  Xfncoln 


375 


u’Tis  advisable  to  go  on  the  heights,”  said  the  soldier, 
“ where  we  may  find  the  commanding  general.” 

‘ ‘ Any  where,  ” returned  Cecil,  confused  with  the  activity 
and  bustle  that  had  passed  before  her  eyes,  ‘ ‘ or  anything,  to 
be  relieved  from  this  distressing  delay. * ’ 

In  a very  few  moments  they  reached  the  summit  of  the 
nearest  of  the  two  hills,  where  they  paused  just  without  the 
busy  circle  of  men  who  labored  there,  while  one  of  the  sol- 
diers went  in  quest  of  the  officer  in  command.  From  the 
point  where  she  now  stood,  Cecil  had  an  open  view  of  the 
port,  the  town,  and  most  of  the  adjacent  country.  The 
vessels  still  reposed  heavily  on  the  waters,  and  she  fancied 
that  the  youthful  midshipman  was  already  nestling  safe  in 
his  own  hammock,  on  board  the  frigate,  whose  tall  and 
tapering  spars  rose  against  the  sky  in  such  beautiful  and 
symmetrical  lines.  No  evidences  of  alarm  were  manifested 
in  the  town  ; but,  on  the  contrary,  the  lights  were  gradually 
disappearing,  notwithstanding  the  heavy  cannonade  which 
still  roared  along  the  western  side  of  the  peninsula  ; and  it 
was  probable  that  Howe,  and  his  unmoved  companions,  }^et 
continued  their  revels,  with  the  same  security  in  which  they 
had  been  left  two  short  hours  before.  While,  with  the  ex- 
ception of  the  batteries,  everything  in  the  distance  was  still, 
and  apparently  slumbering,  the  near  view  was  one  of  life 
and  activity.  Mounds  of  earth  were  already  rising  on  the 
crest  of  the  hill ; laborers  were  filling  barrels  with  earth  and 
sand  ; fascines  were  tumbling  about  from  place  to  place,  as 
they  were  wanted  ; and  yet  the  stillness  was  only  interrupted 
by  the  unremitting  strokes  of  the  pick,  the  low  and  earnest 
hum  ofi  voices,  or  the  crashing  of  branches,  as  the  pride  of 
the  neighboring  orchards  came  crashing  to  the  earth. 
The  novelty  of  the  scene  beguiled  Cecil  of  her  anxiety, 
and  many  minutes  passed  unheeded  by.  Fifty  times 
parties,  or  individuals  amongst  the  laborers,  approaching 
near  her  person,  paused  to  gaze  a moment  at  the  speaking 
and  sweet  features  that  the  placid  light  of  the  moon  ren- 
dered even  more  than  usually  soft,  and  then  pushed  on  in 
silence,  endeavoring  to  repair,  by  renewed  diligence,  the 
transient  forgetfulness  of  their  urgent  duties.  At  length 


376 


%ionc l Xmcoln 


the  man  returned,  and  announced  the  approach  of  the  general 
who  commanded  on  the  hill.  The  latter  was  a soldier  of 
middle  age,  of  calm  and  collected  deportment,  roughly  at- 
tired for  the  occasion,  and  bearing  no  other  symbol  of  his 
rank  than  the  distinctive  crimson  cockade,  in  one  of  the 
large  military  hats  of  the  period. 

“You  find  us  in  the  midst  of  our  labors,' ' he  pleasantly 
observed,  as  he  approached  ; “and  will  overlook  the  delay 
I have  given  you.  It  is  reported  you  left  the  town  this 
evening  ? ’ ’ 

“ Within  the  hour." 

“And  Howe,— dreams  he  of  the  manner  in  which  we 
are  likely  to  amuse  him  in  the  morning  ? ’ ’ 

“It  would  be  affectation  in  one  like  me,”  said  Cecil, 
modestly,  ‘ ‘ to  decline  answering  questions  concerning  the 
views  of  the  royal  general ; but  still  you  will  pardon  me  if 
I say,  that  in  my  present  situation,  I could  wish  to  be 
spared  the  pain  of  even  confessing  my  ignorance. 9 9 

“I  acknowledge  my  error,"  the  officer  unhesitatingly 
answered.  After  a short  pause,  in  which  he  seemed  to  j 
muse,  he  continued  : “ this  is  no  ordinary  night,  young  lady, 
and  it  becomes  my  duty  to  refer  you  to  the  general  com- 
manding this  wing  of  the  army.  He  possibly  may  think 
it  necessary  to  communicate  your  detention  to  the  com- 
mander-in-chief. 9 9 t 

“ It  is  he  I seek,  sir,  and  would  most  wish  to  meet." 

He  bowed,  and,  giving  his  orders  to  a subaltern  in  a low 
voice,  walked  away,  and  was  soon  lost  in  the  busy  crowd 
that  came  and  went  in  constant  employment,  around  the 
summit  of  the  hill.  Cecil  lingered  a single  moment  after 
her  new  conductor  had  declared  his  readiness  to  proceed,  to 
cast  another  glance  at  the  calm  splendor  of  the  sea  and  bay  ; j 
the  distant  and  smoky  roofs  of  the  town  ; the  dim  objects 
that  moved  about  the  adjacent  eminence,  equally  and  simi- 
larly employed  with  those  around  her ; and  then  raising  her 
calash,  and  tightening  the  folds  of  her  mantle,  she  descended 
the  hill  with  the  light  and  elastic  steps  of  youth. 


CHAPTER  XXX. 

“ The  rebel  vales,  the  rebel  dales, 

With  rebel  trees  surrounded, 

The  distant  woods,  the  hills  and  floods, 

With  rebel  echoes  sounded.” 

The  Battle  of  the  Kegs. 

THE  enormous  white  cockade  that  covered  nearly 
one  side  of  the  little  hat  of  her  present  conductor, 
was  the  only  symbol  that  told  Cecil  she  was  now 
committed  to  the  care  of  one  who  held  the  rank 
of  captain,  among  those  who  battled  for  the  rights  of  the 
colonies.  No  other  part  of  his  attire  was  military,  though 
a cut-and- thrust  was  buckled  to  his  form,  which  from  its 
silver  guard  and  formidable  dimensions,  had  probably  been 
borne  by  some  of  his  ancestors,  in  the  former  wars  of  the 
colonies.  The  disposition  of  its  present  wearer  was,  how- 
ever, far  from  that  belligerent  nature  that  his  weapon  might 
be  thought  to  indicate,  for  he  tendered  the  nicest  care  and 
assiduity  to  the  movements  of  his  prisoner. 

At  the  foot  of  the  hill,  a wagon,  returning  from  the  field, 
was  put  in  requisition  by  this  semi-military  gallant ; and, 
after  a little  suitable  preparation,  Cecil  found  herself  seated 
on  a rude  bench  by  his  side  in  the  vehicle  ; while  her  own 
attendants,  and  the  two  private  men,  occupied  its  bottom  in 
still  more  social  affinity.  At  first  their  progress  was  slow 
and  difficult,  return  carts,  literally  by  hundreds,  impeding 
the  way  ; but  when  they  had  once  passed  the  heavy-footed 
beasts  who  drew  them,  they  proceeded  in  the  direction  of 
Roxbury,  with  greater  rapidity.  During  the  first  mile, 
while  they  were  extricating  themselves  from  the  apparently 
interminable  line  of  carts,  the  officer  directed  his  whole  at- 


378 


Xiortel  Xincolrt 


tention  to  this  important  and  difficult  manoeuvre  ; but  when 
their  uneasy  vessel  might  be  said  to  be  fairly  sailing  before 
the  wind,  he  did  not  choose  to  neglect  those  services,  which, 
from  time  immemorial,  beautiful  women  in  distress  have  had 
a right  to  claim  of  men  in  his  profession. 

“Now  do  not  spare  the  whip,”  he  said  to  the  driver,  at 
the  moment  of  their  deliverance  ; ‘ ‘ but  push  on,  for  the 
credit  of  horse-flesh,  and  to  the  disgrace  of  all  horned  cat- 
tle. This  near  beast  of  yours  should  be  a tory,  by  his  gait 
and  reluctance  to  pull  in  the  traces  for  the  common  good — 
treat  him  as  such,  friend,  and,  in  turn,  you  shall  receive  the 
treatment  of  a sound  whig,  when  we  make  a halt.  You 
have  spent  the  winter  in  Boston,  madam  ? ” 

Cecil  bent  her  head  in  silent  assent. 

“The  royal  army  will,  doubtless,  make  a better  figure  in 
the  eyes  of  a lady,  than  the  troops  of  the  colonies  ; though 
there  are  some  among  us  who  are  thought  not  wholly  want- 
ing in  military  knowledge,  and  the  certain  air  of  a soldier,  ’ ’ 
he  continued,  extricating  the  silver-headed  legacy  of  his 
grandfather  from  its  concealment  under  a fold  of  his  com- 
panion’s mantle  : “ you  have  balls  and  entertainments  with- 
out number,  I fancy,  ma’am,  from  the  gentlemen  in  the 
king’s  service.” 

‘ ‘ I believe  that  few  hearts  are  to  be  found  amongst  the 
females  in  Boston,  so  light  as  to  mingle  in  their  amuse- 
ments.” 

‘ ‘ God  bless  them  for  it ! ” exclaimed  her  escort ; “lam 
sure  every  shot  we  throw  into  the  town  is  like  drawing 
blood  from  our  own  veins.  I suppose  the  king’s  officers 
don’t  hold  the  colonists  so  cheap,  since  the  small  affair  on 
Charlestown  neck,  as  they  did  formerly  ? ” 

“None  who  had  any  interest  at  stake,  in  the  events 
of  that  fatal  day,  will  easily  forget  the  impression  it  has 
made.” 

The  young  American  was  too  much  struck  by  the  mel- 
ancholy pathos  in  the  voice  of  Cecil,  not  to  fancy  he  had,  in 
his  own  honest  triumph,  unwittingly  probed  a wound  which 
time  had  not  yet  healed.  They  rode  many  minutes  after  this 
unsuccessful  effort  on  his  part  to  converse,  in  profound 


3Ltonel  Xtncoln 


379 


silence ; nor  did  lie  again  speak  until  the  trampling  of 
horses’  hoofs  was  borne  along  by  the  evening  air,  unaccom- 
panied by  the  lumbering  sounds  of  wheels.  At  the  next 
turn  of  the  road  they  met  a small  cavalcade  of  officers, 
riding  at  a rapid  rate  in  the  direction  of  the  place  they  had 
so  recently  quitted.  The  leader  of  this  party  drew  up  when 
he  saw  the  wagon,  which  was  also  stopped  in  deference  to 
his  obvious  wish  to  speak  with  them. 

There  was  something  in  the  haughty,  and  yet  easy  air 
of  the  gentleman  who  addressed  her  companion,  that  in- 
duced Cecil  to  attend  to  his  remarks  with  more  than  the 
interest  that  is  usually  excited  by  the  commonplace  dia- 
logues of  the  road.  His  dress  was  neither  civil,  nor  wholly 
military,  though  his  bearing  had  much  of  a soldier’s  man- 
ner. As  he  drew  up,  three  or  four  dogs  fawned  upon  him, 
or  passed  with  indulged  impunity  between  the  legs  of  his 
high-blooded  charger,  apparently  indifferent  to  the  impa- 
tient repulses  that  were  freely  bestowed  on  their  troublesome 
familiarities. 

“ High  discipline,  by ! ” exclaimed  this  singular  speci- 

men of  the  colonial  chieftains  ; “ I dare  presume,  gentlemen, 
you  are  from  the  heights  of  Dorchester  ; and  having  walked 
the  whole  distance  thither  from  camp,  are  disposed  to  try  the 
virtues  of  a four-wheeled  conveyance  over  the  same  ground, 
in  a retreat  ! ” 

The  young  man  rose  in  his  place,  and  lifted  his  hat,  with 
marked  respect,  as  he  answered, — 

“We  are  returning  from  the  hill,  sir,  it  is  true;  but  we 
must  see  our  enemy  before  we  retreat  ! ” 

“A  white  cockade  ! As  you  hold  such  rank,  sir,  I pre- 
sume you  have  authority  for  your  movements  ? Down  Juno 
— down,  slut  ! ” 

4 ‘ This  lady  was  landed  an  hour  since  on  the  Point,  from 
the  town,  by  a boat  from  a king’s  ship,  sir  ; and  I am 
ordered  to  see  her  in  safety  to  the  general  of  the  right 
wing.” 

‘ ‘ A lady  ! ’ ’ repeated  the  other,  with  singular  emphasis, 
slowly  passing  his  hand  over  his  remarkably  aquiline  and 
prominent  features ; “ if  there  be  a lady  in  the  case,  ease 


380 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


must  be  indulged.  Will  you  down,  Juno  ! ” Turning  his 
head  a little  aside,  to  his  nearest  aid,  he  added,  in  a voice 
that  was  suppressed  only  by  the  action, — 4 ‘Some  trull  of 
Howe’s,  sent  out  as  the  newest  specimen  of  loyal  modesty  ! 
In  such  a case,  sir,  you  are  quite  right  to  use  horses.  I 
only  marvel  that  you  did  not  take  six  instead  of  two.  But 
how  come  we  on  in  the  trenches  ? Down,  you  hussy,  down  ! 
Thou  shouldst  go  to  court,  Juno,  and  fawn  upon  his  majes- 
ty’s ministers,  where  thy  sycophancy  might  purchase  thee  a 
ribbon  ! How  come  we  on  in  the  trenches  ? ” 

“We  have  broken  ground,  sir;  and  as  the  eyes  of  the 
royal  troops  are  drawn  upon  the  batteries,  we  shall  make  a 
work  of  it  before  the  day  shows  them  our  occupation.” 

‘ ‘ Ah  ! we  are  certainly  good  at  digging,  if  at  no  other 
part  of  our  exercises.  Miss  Juno,  thou  puttest  thy  pre- 
cious life  in  jeopardy! — you  will?  then  take  thy  fate!” 
As  he  spoke,  the  impatient  chief  drew  a pistol  from  his  hol- 
ster, and  snapped  it  twice  at  the  head  of  the  dog,  that  still 
fawned  upon  him  in  unwitting  fondness.  Angry  with  him- 
self, his  weapon,  and  the  animal  at  the  same  moment,  he 
turned  to  his  attendants,  and  added,  with  bitter  deliberation, 
— “Gentlemen,  if  one  of  you  will  exterminate  that  quad- 
ruped, I promise  him  an  honorable  place  in  my  first  des- 
patches to  Congress,  for  the  service  ! ’ ’ 

A groom  in  attendance  whistled  to  the  spaniel,  and  prob- 
ably saved  the  life  of  the  disgraced  favorite. 

The  officer  now  addressed  himself  to  the  party  he  had 
detained,  with  a collected  and  dignified  air,  that  showed  he 
had  recovered  his  self-possession,  by  saying, — 

“ I beg  pardon,  sir,  for  this  trouble — let  me  not  prevent 
yon  from  proceeding  ; there  may  be  serious  work  on  the 
heights  before  morning,  and  you  will  doubtless  wish  to  be 
there.”  He  bowed  with  perfect  ease  and  politeness,  and 
the  two  parties  were  slowly  passing  each  other,  when,  as  if 
repenting  of  his  condescension,  he  turned  himself  in  his 
saddle,  adding,  with  those  sarcastic  tones  so  peculiarly  his 
own, — “Captain,  I beseech  thee  have  an  especial  care  of 
the  lady  ! ’ ’ 

With  these  words  in  his  mouth,  he  clapped  spurs  to  his 


Xtonel  Xlncoln 


381 


horse,  and  galloped  onward,  followed  by  all  his  train  at  the 
same  impetuous  rate. 

Cecil  had  heard  each  syllable  that  fell  from  the  lips  of 
both  in  this  short  dialogue,  and  she  felt  a chill  of  disappoint- 
ment gathering  about  her  heart,  as  it  proceeded.  When 
they  had  parted,  drawing  a long,  tremulous  breath,  she 
asked,  in  tones  that  betrayed  all  her  feelings, — 

“ And  is  this  Washington  ? ” 

“ That ! ” exclaimed  her  companion,  “no,  no,  madam,  he 
is  a very  different  sort  of  man  ! That  is  the  great  Eng- 
lish officer,  whom  Congress  has  made  a general  in  our  army, 
He  is  thought  to  be  as  great  in  the  field,  as  he  is  uncouth  in 
the  drawing-room — yes,  I will  acknowledge  that  much  in 
his  favor,  though  I never  know  how  to  understand  him  ; he 
is  so  proud — so  supercilious — and  yet  he  is  a great  friend  of 
liberty  ! ” 

Cecil  permitted  the  officer  to  reconcile  the  seeming  con- 
tradictions in  the  character  of  his  superior,  in  his  own  way, 
feeling  perfectly  relieved  when  she  understood  it  was  not  the 
man  who  could  have  any  influence  on  her  own  destiny.  The 
driver  now  appeared  anxious  to  recover  the  lost  time,  and 
he  urged  his  horses  over  the  ground  with  increased  rapidity. 
The  remainder  of  their  short  drive  to  the  vicinity  of  Rox- 
bury,  passed  in  silence.  As  the  cannonading  was  still 
maintained  with  equal  warmth  by  both  parties,  it  was  haz- 
arding too  much  to  place  themselves  in  the  line  of  the  ene- 
my’s fire.  The  young  man,  therefore,  after  finding  a secure 
spot  among  the  uneven  ground  of  the  vicinity,  where  he 
might  leave  his  charge  in  safety,  proceeded  by  himself  to 
the  point  where  he  had  reason  to  believe  he  should  find  the 
officer  he  was  ordered  to  seek.  During  his  short  absence, 
Cecil  remained  in  the  wagon  an  appalled  listener,  and  a par- 
tial spectator  of  the  neighboring  contest. 

The  Americans  had  burst  their  only  mortar  of  size,  the 
preceding  night ; but  they  applied  their  cannon  with  un- 
wearied diligence,  not  only  in  the  face  of  the  British  en- 
trenchments, but  on  the  low  land,  across  the  estuary  of  the 
Charles  ; and  still  farther  to  the  north,  in  front  of  the  posi- 
tion which  their  enemies  held  on  the  well-known  heights  of 


382 


Xiortel  ^Lincoln 


Charlestown.  In  retaliation  for  this  attack,  the  batteries 
along  the  western  side  of  the  town  were  in  a constant 
blaze  of  fire,  while  those  of  the  eastern  continued  to  slum- 
ber, in  total  unconsciousness  of  the  coming  danger. 

When  the  officer  returned,  he  reported  that  his  search 
had  been  successful,  and  that  he  had  been  commanded  to 
conduct  his  charge  into  the  presence  of  the  American  com- 
mander-in-chief.  This  new  arrangement  imposed  the  neces- 
sity of  driving  a few  miles  farther  ; and  as  the  youth  began 
to  regard  his  new  duty  with  some  impatience,  he  was  in  no 
humor  for  dela}^.  The  route  was  circuitous  and  safe,  the 
roads  good,  and  the  driver  diligent.  In  consequence,  within 
the  hour  they  passed  the  river,  and  Cecil  found  herself,  after 
so  long  an  absence,  once  more  approaching  the  ancient  pro- 
vincial seat  of  learning. 

The  little  village,  though  in  the  hands  of  friends,  exhib- 
ited the  infallible  evidences  of  the  presence  of  an  irregular 
army.  The  buildings  of  the  University  were  filled  with 
troops,  and  the  doors  of  the  different  inns  were  thronged 
with  noisy  soldiers,  who  were  assembled  for  the  inseparable 
purposes  of  revelry  and  folly.  The  officer  drove  to  one  of 
the  most  private  of  these  haunts  of  the  unthinking  and  idle, 
and  declared  his  intentions  to  deposit  his  charge  under  its 
roof,  until  he  could  learn  the  pleasure  of  the  American 
leader.  Cecil  heard  his  arrangements  with  little  satisfac- 
tion ; but,  yielding  to  the  necessity  of  the  case,  when  the 
vehicle  had  stopped,  she  alighted  without  remonstrance. 
With  her  two  attendants  in  her  train,  and  preceded  by  the 
officer,  she  passed  through  the  noisy  crowd,  not  only  with- 
out insult,  but  without  molestation.  The  different  declaim- 
ed in  the  throng,  and  they  were  many,  even  lowered  their 
clamorous  voices  as  she  approached,  the  men  giving  way, 
in  deference  for  her  sex  ; and  she  entered  the  building  with- 
out hearing  but  one  remark  applied  to  herself,  though  a low 
and  curious  buzz  of  voices  followed  her  footsteps  to  its  very 
threshold.  This  solitary  remark  was  a sudden  exclamation, 
in  admiration  of  the  grace  of  her  movements  ; and,  singular 
as  it  may  seem,  her  companion  thought  it  necessary  to  apolo- 
gize for  its  rudeness,  by  whispering  that  it  had  proceeded 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


383 


from  the  lips  of  * * one  of  the  Southern  riflemen  ; a corps  as 
distinguished  for  its  skill  and  bravery,  as  for  its  want  of 
breeding ! ’ 9 

The  inside  of  this  inn  presented  a very  different  aspect  from 
its  exterior.  The  decent  tradesman  who  kept  it  had  so 
far  yielded  to  the  emergency  of  the  times,  and  perhaps,  also, 
to  a certain  propensity  towards  gain,  as  temporarily  to 
adopt  the  profession  he  followed ; but  by  a sort  of  implied 
compact  with  the  crowd  without,  while  he  administered  to 
their  appetite  for  liquor,  he  preserved  most  of  the  privacy 
of  his  domestic  arrangements.  He  had,  however,  been  com- 
pelled to  relinquish  one  apartment  entirely  to  the  service  of 
the  public,  into  which  Cecil  and  her  companions  were  shown, 
as  a matter  of  course,  without  the  smallest  apology  for  its 
condition. 

There  might  have  been  a dozen  people  in  the  common 
room  ; some  of  whom  were  quietly  seated  before  its  large  fire, 
among  whom  were  one  or  two  females  ; some  walking,  and 
others  distributed  on  chairs,  as  accident  or  inclination  had 
placed  them.  A slight  movement  was  made  at  the  entrance 
of  Cecil,  but  it  soon  subsided  ; though  her  rich  mantle  of  fine 
cloth,  and  silken  calash,  did  not  fail  to  draw  the  eyes  of  the 
women  upon  her,  with  a ruder  gaze  than  she  had  yet  encoun- 
tered from  the  other  sex,  during  the  hazardous  adventures 
of  the  night.  She  took  an  offered  seat  near  the  bright  and 
cheerful  blaze  on  the  hearth,  which  imparted  all  the  light 
the  room  contained,  and  disposed  herself  to  wait  in  patience 
the  return  of  her  conductor,  who  immediately  took  his 
departure  for  the  neighboring  quarters  of  the  American 
chief. 

“ ’Tis  an  awful  time  for  women  bodies  to  journey  in  ! 99 
said  a middle-aged  woman  near  her,  who  was  busily  engaged 
in  knitting,  though  she  also  bore  the  marks  of  a traveller 
in  her  dress ; “I'm  sure  if  I had  thought  there  'd  ha'  been 
such  contentions,  I would  never  have  crossed  the  Connecti- 
cut ; though  I have  an  only  child  in  camp  ! ’ 9 

“To  a mother,  the  distress  must  be  great,  indeed,"  said 
Cecil,  “when  she  hears  the  report  of  a contest  in  which  she 
knows  her  children  are  engaged." 


3^4 


Lionel  Lincoln 


“ Yes,  Royal  is  engaged  as  a six-months' -man,  and  he’s 
partly  agreed  to  stay  till  the  king’s  troops  conclude  to  give 
up  the  town.  ’ ’ 

“ It  seems  to  me,”  said  a grave  looking  yeoman,  who 
occupied  the  opposite  corner  of  the  fireplace,  “your  child  has 
an  unfitting  name  for  one  who  fights  against  the  crown  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Ah,  he  was  so  called  before  the  king  wore  his  Scottish 
Boot ! and  what  has  once  been  solemnly  named,  in  holy 
baptism,  is  not  to  be  changed  with  the  shift  of  the  times  ! 
They  were  twins,  and  I called  one  Prince  and  the  other 
Royal ; for  they  were  born  the  day  his  present  majesty 
came  to  man’s  estate.  That,  you  know,  was  before  his 
heart  had  changed,  and  when  the  people  of  the  Bay  loved 
him  little  less  than  they  did  their  own  flesh  and  blood.  ’ ’ 
“Why,  Goody,”  said  the  yeoman,  smiling  good-hu- 
moredly, and  rising  to  offer  her  a pinch  of  his  real  Scotch, 
in  token  of  amity,  while  he  made  so  free  with  her  domestic 
matters,  “ you  had  then  an  heir  to  the  throne  in  your  own 
family  ! The  Prince  Royal,  they  say,  comes  next  to  the 
king  ; and  by  your  tell,  one  of  them,  at  least,  is  a worthy 
fellow,  who  is  not  likely  to  sell  his  heritage  for  a mess  of 
pottage  ! If  I understand  you,  Royal  is  here  in  service  ? ” 
“He ’sat  this  blessed  moment  in  one  of  the  battering- 
rams  in  front  of  Boston  neck,”  returned  the  woman  ; “ and 
the  Tord,  He  knows,  ’tis  an  awful  calling,  to  be  beating 
down  the  housen  of  people  of  the  same  religion  and  blood 
with  ourselves  ! but  so  it  must  be,  to  prevail  over  the  wicked 
designs  of  such  as  would  live  in  pomp  and  idleness,  by  the 
sweat  and  labor  of  their  fellow-creatures.” 

The  honest  yeoman,  who  was  somewhat  more  familiar 
with  the  terms  of  modern  warfare  than  the  woman,  smiled 
at  her  mistake,  while  he  pursued  the  conversation  with  a 
peculiar  gravity,  which  rendered  his  humor  doubly  droll. 

Tis  to  be  hoped  the  boy  will  not  weary  at  the  weapon 
before  the  morning  cometh.  But  why  does  Prince  linger 
behind,  in  such  a moment  ? Tarries  he  with  his  father,  on 
the  homestead,  in  safety,  being  the  younger  born?  ” 

“ No,  no,”  said  the  woman,  shaking  her  head  in  sorrow  ; 
“ he  dwells,  I trust,  with  our  common  Father,  in  heaven  ! 


Xtonel  Xfncolrt 


3^5 


Neither  are  you  right  in  calling  him  the  home-child.  He  was 
my  first-born,  and  a comely  youth  he  grew  to  be  ! When 
the  cry  that  the  reg’lars  were  out  at  Eexington,  to  kill  and 
destroy,  passed  through  the  country,  he  shouldered  his 
musket,  and  came  down  with  the  people,  to  know  the 
reason  the  land  was  stained  with  American  blood.  He  was 
young  and  full  of  ambition  to  be  foremost  among  them  who 
were  willing  to  fight  for  their  birthrights ; and  the  last  I 
ever  heard  of  him  was  in  the  midst  of  the  king’s  troops  on 
Breed’s.  No,  no  ; his  body  never  came  off  the  hill  ! The 
neighbors  sent  me  up  the  clothes  he  left  in  camp,  and  ’t  is 
one  of  his  socks  that  I ’m  now  footing  for  his  twin-brother.  ’ * 

The  woman  delivered  this  simple  explanation  with  perfect 
calmness  ; though,  as  she  advanced  in  the  subject,  large 
tears  started  from  her  eyes,  and,  following  each  other  down 
her  cheeks,  fell  unheeded  upon  the  humble  garment  of  her 
dead  son. 

‘ ‘ This  is  the  way  our  bravest  striplings  are  cut  off,  fight- 
ing with  the  scum  of  Europe!”  exclaimed  the  yeoman, 
with  a warmth  that  showed  how  powerfully  his  feelings  were 
touched.  “I  hope  the  boy  who  lives  may  find  occasion  to 
revenge  his  brother’s  death.” 

“ God  forbid  ! God  forbid  ! ” exclaimed  the  weeping 
mother, — “revenge  is  an  evil  passion  ; and  least  of  all  would 
I wish  a child  of  mine  to  go  into  the  field  of  blood  with  so 
foul  a breast.  God  has  given  us  this  land  to  dwell  in,  and 
to  rear  up  temples  and  worshippers  of  his  holy  name ; and 
in  giving  it,  He  bestowed  the  right  to  defend  it  against  all 
earthly  oppression.  If  ’t  was  right  for  Prince  to  come,  ’t  was 
right  for  Royal  to  follow  ! ” 

“ I believe  I am  reproved  in  justice,”  returned  the  man, 
looking  around  at  the  spectators  with  an  eye  that  no  longer 
teemed  with  a hidden  meaning.  “ God  bless  you,  my  good 
woman,  and  deliver  you,  with  your  remaining  boy,  and  all 
of  us,  from  the  scourge  which  has  been  inflicted  on  the 
country  for  our  sins.  I go  west,  into  the  mountains,  with 
the  sun  ; and  if  I can  carry  any  word  of  comfort  from  you 
to  the  good  man  at  home,  it  will  not  be  a hill  or  two  that 

shall  hinder  it.” 

25 


386 


%\oncl  ^Lincoln 


“ The  same  thanks  to  you  for  the  offer,  as  if  you  did  it, 
friend  ; my  man  would  be  right  glad  to  see  you  at  his  set- 
tlement ; but  I sicken  already  with  the  noises  and  awful 
sights  of  warfare,  and  shall  not  tarry  long  after  my  son  comes 
forth  from  the  battle.  I shall  go  down  to  Cragie’s  house  in 
the  morning,  and  look  upon  the  blessed  man  whom  the  peo- 
ple have  chosen  from  among  themselves  as  a leader,  and 
hurry  back  again  ; for  I plainly  see  that  this  is  not  an 
abiding-place  for  such  as  I ! ” 

* ‘ You  will  then  have  to  follow  him  into  the  line  of  dan- 
ger; for  I saw  him,  within  the  hour,  riding,  with  all  his 
followers,  towards  the  water-side  ; and  I doubt  not  that  this 
unusual  waste  of  ammunition  is  intended  for  more  than  we 
of  little  wit  can  guess/  ’ 

‘ ‘ Of  whom  speak  you  ? ’ ’ Cecil  involuntarily  asked. 

“Of  whom  should  he  speak,  but  of  Washington  ? ” re- 
turned a deep,  low  voice  at  her  elbow,  whose  remarkable 
sounds  instantly  recalled  the  tones  of  the  aged  messenger  of 
death,  who  had  appeared  at  the  bedside  of  her  grandmother. 
Cecil  started  from  her  chair,  and  recoiled  several  paces  from 
the  person  of  Ralph,  who  stood  regarding  her  with  a steady 
and  searching  look,  heedless  of  the  observation  they  at- 
tracted, as  well  as  of  the  number  and  quality  of  the  specta- 
tors. 

“We  are  not  strangers,  young  lady,”  continued  the  old 
man  ; “and  you  will  excuse  me  if  I add,  that  the  face  of 
an  acquaintance  must  be  grateful  to  one  of  your  gentle  sex, 
in  a place  so  unsettled  and  disorderly  as  this.” 

“ An  acquaintance  ? ” repeated  the  unprotected  bride. 

“ I said  an  acquaintance;  we  know  each  other,  surely,” 
returned  Ralph,  with  marked  emphasis;  “you  will  believe 
me  when  I add,  that  I have  seen  the  two  men  in  the  guard- 
room,  which  is  at  hand.” 

Cecil  cast  a furtive  glance  behind  her,  and,  with  some 
alarm,  perceived  that  she  was  separated  from  Meriton  and 
the  stranger.  Before  time  was  allowed  for  recollection,  the 
old  man  approached  her  with  a courtly  breeding,  that  was 
rendered  more  striking  by  the  coarseness  as  well  as  negli- 
gence of  his  attire. 


%ioncl  Lincoln 


3&7 


“ This  is  not  a place  for  the  niece  of  an  English  peer,”  he 
said  ; ‘ ‘ but  I have  long  been  at  home  in  this  warlike  vil- 
lage, and  will  conduct  you  to  another  residence,  more  suited 
to  your  sex  and  condition.’ ’ 

For  an  instant  Cecil  hesitated  ; but  observing  the  wonder- 
ing faces  about  her,  and  the  intense  curiosity  with  which  all 
in  the  room  suspended  their  several  pursuits,  to  listen  to  each 
syllable,  she  timidly  accepted  his  offered  hand,  suffering 
him  to  lead  her,  not  only  from  the  room,  but  the  house,  in 
profound  silence.  The  door  through  which  they  left  the 
building  was  opposite  to  that  by  which  she  had  entered  ; 
and  when  they  found  themselves  in  the  open  air,  it  was  in 
a different  street,  and  a short  distance  removed  from  the 
crowd  of  revellers  already  mentioned. 

“ I have  left  two  attendants  behind  me,”  she  said,  “ with- 
out whom  ’ t is  impossible  to  proceed.” 

“ As  they  are  watched  by  armed  men,  you  have  no  choice 
but  to  share  their  confinement,  or  to  submit  to  the  temporary 
separation,”  returned  the  other,  calmly.  “ Should  his  keep- 
ers discover  the  character  of  him  who  led  you  hither,  his 
fate  would  be  certain  ! ’ ’ 

“His  character!”  repeated  Cecil,  again  shrinking  from 
the  touch  of  the  old  man. 

‘ ‘ Surely  my  words  are  plain  ! I said  his  character.  Is 
he  not  the  deadly,  obstinate  enemy  of  liberty  ? And  think 
you  these  countrymen  of  ours  so  dull  as  to  suffer  one  like 
him  to  go  at  large  in  their  very  camp?  No,  no,”  he  mut- 
tered, with  a low,  but  exulting  laugh ; “ like  a fool  has  he 
tempted  his  fate,  and  like  a dog  shall  he  meet  it ! Eet  us 
proceed ; the  house  is  but  a step  from  this,  and  you  may 
summon  him  to  your  presence  if  you  will.” 

Cecil  was  rather  impelled  by  her  companion  than  induced 
to  proceed,  when,  as  he  had  said,  they  soon  stopped  before 
the  door  of  a humble  and  retired  building.  An  armed  man 
paced  along  its  front,  while  the  lengthened  shadow  of  an- 
other sentinel  in  the  rear  was  every  half-minute  thrown  far 
into  the  street,  in  confirmation  of  the  watchfulness  that  was 
kept  over  those  who  dwelt  within. 

“Proceed,”  said  Ralph,  throwing  open  the  outer  door 


388 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


without  hesitation.  Cecil  complied,  but  started  at  encoun- 
tering another  man,  trailing  a musket,  as  he  paced  to  and 
fro  in  the  narrow  passage  that  received  her.  Between  this 
sentinel  and  Ralph  there  seemed  to  exist  a good  understand- 
ing, for  the  latter  addressed  him  with  perfect  freedom, — 

“ Has  no  order  been  yet  received  from  Washington  ? ” he 
asked. 

“ None ; and  I rather  conclude,  by  the  delay,  that  noth- 
ing very  favorable  is  to  be  expected.” 

The  old  man  muttered  to  himself,  but  passed  on,  and 
throwing  open  another  door,  said, — 

“Enter.” 

Again  Cecil  complied,  the  door  closing  on  her  at  the  in- 
stant ; but  before  she  had  time  to  express  either  her  wonder 
or  her  alarm,  she  was  folded  in  the  arms  of  her  husband. 


CHAPTER  XXXI. 

“ Is  she  a Capulet? 

O dear  account ! my  life  is  my  foe’s  debt.” 

Romeo  and  Juliet . 

A H ! Lincoln  ! Lincoln  ! cried  the  weeping  bride, 
/ \ gently  extricating  herself  from  the  long  embrace 

j[  jL  °f  Lionel,  ‘ ‘ at  what  a moment  did  you  desert 
me  ! ” 

‘ ‘ And  how  have  I been  punished,  love  ! a night  of  frenzy, 
and  a morrow  of  useless  regrets  ! How  early  have  I been 
made  to  feel  the  strength  of  those  ties  which  unite  us  ! un- 
less, indeed,  my  own  folly  may  have  already  severed  them 
forever  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Truant  ! I know  you  ! and  shall  hereafter  weave  a web, 
with  woman’s  art,  to  keep  you  in  my  toils  ! If  you  love  me, 
Lionel,  as  I would  fain  believe,  let  all  the  past  be  forgotten. 
I ask — I wish  no  explanation.  You  have  been  deceived, 
and  that  repentant  eye  assures  me  of  your  returning  reason. 
Let  us  now  speak  only  of  yourself.  Why  do  I find  you 
thus  guarded,  more  like  a criminal  than  an  officer  of  the 
crown  ? ’ ’ 

“They  have,  indeed,  bestowed  especial  watchfulness  on 
my  safety.” 

‘ ‘ How  came  you  in  their  power  ? and  why  do  they  abuse 
their  advantage  ? ’ ’ 

“ ’T  is  easily  explained.  Presuming  on  the  tempestuous- 
ness of  the  night — what  a bridal  was  ours,  Cecil  ! ” 

“ ’Twas  terrible  ! ” she  answered,  shuddering  ; then,  with 
a bright  and  instant  smile,  as  if  sedulous  to  chase  every  ap- 
pearance of  distrust  or  care  from  her  countenance,  she  con- 


39° 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


tinued, — “ but  I have  no  longer  faith  in  omens,  Lincoln  ! 
or,  if  one  has  been  given,  is  not  the  awful  fulfilment  already 
come?  I know  not  how  you  value  the  benedictions  of  a 
parting  soul,  Lionel,  but  to  me  there  is  holy  consolation  in 
knowing  that  my  dying  parent  left  her  blessing  on  our  sud- 
den union.’  ’ 

Disregarding  the  hand  which,  with  gentle  earnestness 
she  had  laid  upon  his  shoulder,  he  walked  gloomily  away, 
into  a distant  corner  of  the  apartment. 

“Cedi,  I do  love  you,  as  you  would  fain  believe,”  he 
said,  ‘ ‘ and  I listen  readily  to  your  wish  to  bury  the  past  in 
oblivion.  But  I leave  my  tale  unfinished.  You  know  the 
night  was  such  that  none  would  choose,  uselessly,  to  brave 
its  fury : I attempted  to  profit  by  the  storm,  and  availing 
myself  of  a flag,  which  is  regularly  granted  to  the  simpleton, 
Job  Pray,  I left  the  town.  Impatient — do  I say,  impatient? 
borne  along  rather  by  a tempest  of  passions  that  mocked 
the  feebler  elements,  we  ventured  too  much.  Cecil,  I was 
not  alone ! ” 

“I  know  it — I know  it,”  she  said,  hurriedly,  though 
speaking  barely  above  her  breath  ; ‘ ‘ you  ventured  too 

much — ’ ’ 

4 ‘ And  encountered  a picket  that  would  not  mistake  a 
royal  officer  for  an  impoverished,  though  privileged  idiot. 
In  our  anxiety  we  overlooked — believe  me,  dearest  Cecil, 
that  if  you  knew  all — the  scene  I had  witnessed — the 
motives  which  urged — they,  at  least,  would  justify  this 
strange  and  seeming  desertion.” 

“ Did  I doubt  it,  would  I forget  my  condition,  my  recent 
loss  and  my  sex,  to  follow  in  the  footsteps  of  one  unworthy 
of  my  solicitude  ! ” returned  the  bride,  coloring  as  much 
with  innate  modesty,  as  with  the  power  of  her  emotions. 

‘ ‘ Think  not  I come,  with  girlish  weakness,  to  reproach  you 
with  any  fancied  wrongs.  I am  your  wife,  Major  Lincoln  ; 
and  as  such  would  I serve  you,  at  a moment  when  I know 
all  the  tenderness  of  the  tie  will  most  be  needed.  At  the 
altar,  and  in  the  presence  of  my  God,  have  I acknowledged 
the  sacred  duty  ; and  shall  I hesitate  to  discharge  it  because 
the  eyes  of  man  are  on  me?” 


%ioncl  ^Lincoln 


391 


“ I shall  go  mad  ! I shall  go  mad  ! ” cried  Lionel,  in  un- 
governable mental  anguish,  as  he  paced  the  floor,  in  violent 
disorder.  ‘ ‘ There  are  moments  when  I think  that  the  curse 
which  destroyed  the  father,  has  already  lighted  on  the  son  ! ’ ’ 

“ Lionel  ! ” said  the  soft,  soothing  voice  of  his  companion, 
at  his  elbow,  “ is  this  to  render  me  more  happy — the  welcome 
you  bestow  on  the  confiding  girl  who  has  committed  her  hap- 
piness to  your  keeping  ? I see  you  relent,  and  will  be  more 
just  to  us  both — more  dutiful  to  your  God  ! Now  let  us 
speak  of  your  confinement.  Surely,  you  are  not  suspected 
of  any  criminal  designs  in  this  rash  visit  to  the  camp  of  the 
Americans  ! ’T  were  easy  to  convince  their  leaders  that  you 
are  innocent  of  so  base  a purpose.” 

“ ’T  is  difficult  to  evade  the  vigilance  of  those  who  struggle 
for  liberty  !”  returned  the  low,  calm  voice  of  Ralph,  who 
stood  before  them,  unexpectedly.  “ Major  Lincoln  has  too 
long  listened  to  the  counsels  of  tyrants  and  slaves,  and  for- 
gotten the  land  of  his  birth.  If  he  would  be  safe,  let  him 
retract  the  error,  while  yet  he  may,  with  honor.” 

” Honor  ! ” repeated  Lionel,  with  unconcealed  disdain, — 
again  pacing  the  room  with  swift  and  uneasy  steps,  without 
deigning  any  other  notice  of  the  unwelcome  intruder.  Cecil 
bowed  her  head,  and,  sinking  in  a chair,  concealed  her  face 
in  her  small  muff,  as  if  to  exclude  some  horrid  and  fearful 
sight  from  her  view. 

The  momentary  silence  was  broken  by  the  sound  of  foot- 
steps and  of  voices  in  the  passage,  and  at  the  next  instant, 
the  door  of  the  room  opening,  Meriton  was  seen  on  its  thresh- 
old. His  appearance  roused  Cecil,  who,  springing  on  her 
feet,  beckoned  him  away,  with  a sort  of  frenzied  earnestness, 
exclaiming, — 

“Not  here!  not  here!  For  the  love  of  Heaven,  not 
here  ! ’ ’ 

The  valet  hesitated,  but,  catching  a glimpse  of  his  master, 
his  attachment  got  the  ascendency  of  his  respect. 

‘ ‘ God  be  praised  for  this  blessed  sight,  Master  Lionel ! ’ ’ 
he  cried  ; “ ’ t is  the  happiest  hour  I have  seen  since  I lost  the 
look  at  the  shores  of  old  England  ! If  ’t  was  only  at  Rav- 
enscliffe,  or  in  Soho,  I should  be  the  most  contented  fool  in 


392 


Xtonel  Xincoln 


the  three  kingdoms  ! Ah,  Master  Lionel,  let  us  get  out  of 
this  province,  into  the  country  where  there  is  no  rebels  ; or 
anything  worse  than  Kings,  Lords,  and  Commons  ! ” 

“ Enough  now  ; for  this  time,  worthy  Meriton,  enough  ! ” 
interrupted  Cecil,  breathing  with  difficulty,  in  her  eagerness 
to  be  heard.  “ Go — return  to  the  inn — the  colleges— any- 
where— do  but  go  ! ’ ’ 

“ Don’t  send  a loyal  subject,  ma’am,  again  among  the 
rebels,  I desire  to  entreat  of  you.  Such  awful  blasphemies, 
sir,  as  I heard  while  I was  there  ! They  spoke  of  his  sacred 
majesty  just  as  freely,  sir,  as  if  he  had  been  a gentleman 
like  yourself.  Joyful  was  the  news  of  my  release  ! ” 

“ And  had  it  been  a guard-room  on  the  opposite  shore,” 
said  Ralph,  “the  liberties  they  used  with  your  earthly 
monarch  would  have  been  as  freely  taken  with  the  King  of 
kings  ! ’ ’ 

“You  shall  remain,  then,”  said  Cecil,  probably  mistaking 
the  look  of  high  disdain  which  Meriton  bestowed  on  his  aged 
fellow-voyager,  for  one  of  a very  different  meaning  ; ‘ ‘ but 
not  here.  You  have  other  apartments,  Major  Lincoln  ; let 
my  attendants  be  received  there — you  surely  would  not 
admit  the  menials  to  our  interview  ! ” 

“ Why  this  sudden  terror,  love  ? Here,  if  not  happy,  you 
at  least  are  safe.  Go,  Meriton,  into  the  adjoining  room  ; if 
wanted,  there  is  admission  through  this  door  of  communi- 
cation. ” 

The  valet  murmured  some  half-uttered  sentences,  of  which 
only  the  emphatic  word  ‘ ‘ genteel  ’ ’ was  audible  ; while  the 
direction  of  his  discontented  eye  sufficiently  betrayed  that 
Ralph  was  the  subject  of  his  meditations.  The  old  man  fol- 
lowed his  footsteps,  and  the  door  of  the  passage  soon  closed 
on  both,  leaving  Cecil  standing,  like  a beautiful  statue,  in 
an  attitude  of  absorbed  thought.  When  the  noise  of  her 
attendants,  as  they  quietly  entered  the  adjoining  room, 
was  heard,  she  breathed  again,  with  a tremulous  sigh,  that 
seemed  to  raise  a weight  of  apprehension  from  her  heart. 

“ Fear  not  for  me,  Cecil,  and  least  of  all  for  yourself,”  said 
Lionel,  drawing  her  to  his  bosom  with  fond  solicitude  : “my 
headlong  rashness,  or  rather  that  fatal  bane  to  the  happiness 


Xionel  Xincoin 


393 


of  my  house,  the  distempered  feeling  which  you  must  have 
often  seen  and  deplored,  has  indeed  led  me  into  a seeming 
danger.  But  I have  a reason  for  my  conduct,  which, 
avowed,  shall  lull  the  suspicions  of  even  our  enemies  to 
sleep.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ I have  no  suspicions — no  knowledge  of  any  imperfec- 
tions— no  regrets,  Lionel ; nothing  but  the  most  ardent 
wishes  for  your  peace  of  mind  ; and,  if  I might  explain  ! — 
yes,  now  is  a time — Lionel,  kind,  but  truant  Lionel — ” 

Her  words  were  interrupted  by  Ralph,  who  appeared 
again  in  the  room,  with  that  noiseless  step,  which,  in  con- 
junction with  his  great  age  and  attenuated  frame,  sometimes 
gave  to  his  movements  and  aspect  the  character  of  a being 
superior  to  the  attributes  of  humanity.  On  his  arm  he  bore 
an  overcoat  and  a hat,  both  of  which  Cecil  recognized,  at  a 
glance,  as  the  property  of  the  unknown  man  who  had  at- 
tended her  person  throughout  all  the  vicissitudes  of  that 
eventful  night. 

“See  ! ” said  Ralph,  exhibiting  his  spoils  with  a ghastly, 
but  meaning  smile,  4 ‘ see  in  how  many  forms  Liberty  appears 
to  aid  her  votaries  ! Here  is  the  guise  in  which  she  will  now 
be  courted  ! * Wear  them,  young  man,  and  be  free  ! ” 

“Believe  him  not — listen  not,”  whispered  Cecil,  while  she 
shrunk  from  his  approach  in  undisguised  terror  ; ‘ ‘ nay,  do 
listen,  but  act  with  caution  ! ” 

“ Dost  thou  delay  to  receive  the  blessed  boon  of  freedom, 
when  offered  ? ” demanded  Ralph.  “ Wouldst  thou  remain, 
and  brave  the  angry  justice  of  the  American  chief,  and  make 
thy  wife,  of  a day,  a widow  for  an  age?  ” 

“In  what  manner  am  I to  profit  by  this  dress  ?”  said 
Lionel.  ‘ ‘ To  submit  to  the  degradation  of  a disguise,  success 
should  be  certain.’ ’ 

“ Turn  thy  haughty  eyes,  young  man,  on  the  picture  of 
innocence  and  terror  at  thy  side.  For  the  sake  of  her  whose 
fate  is  wrapped  in  thine,  if  not  for  your  own,  consult  thy 
safety,  and  fly — another  minute  may  be  too  late.’’ 

“ O ! hesitate  not  a moment  longer,  Lincoln,’’  cried  Cecil, 
with  a change  of  purpose  as  sudden  as  the  impulse  was  pow- 
erful ; ‘ ‘ fly — leave  me  ; my  sex  and  station  will  be — ’ ’ 


394 


Xionel  Xincoln 


“ Never,”  said  Lionel,  casting  the  garment  from  him,  in 
cool  disdain.  “ Once,  when  death  was  busy,  did  I abandon 
thee  ; but,  ere  I do  it  again,  his  blow  must  fall  on  me  ! ” 

“ I will  follow — I will  join  you.” 

“You  shall  not  part,”  said  Ralph,  once  more  raising  the 
rejected  coat,  and  lending  his  aid  to  envelope  the  form  of 
Lionel,  who  stood  passive  under  the  united  efforts  of  his 
bride  and  her  aged  assistant.  “Remain  here,”  the  latter 
added,  when  their  brief  task  was  ended,  “and  await  the 
summons  to  freedom.  And  thou,  sweet  flower  of  innocence 
and  love,  follow  and  share  in  the  honor  of  liberating  him 
who  has  enslaved  thee  ! ” 

Cecil  blushed  with  virgin  shame,  at  the  strength  of  his 
expressions,  but  bowed  her  head  in  silent  acquiescence  to 
his  will.  Proceeding  to  the  door,  he  beckoned  her  to  ap- 
proach, indicating  by  an  expressive  gesture  to  Lionel,  that 
he  was  to  remain  stationary.  When  Cecil  had  complied, 
and  they  were  in  the  narrow  passage  of  the  building,  Ralph, 
instead  of  betraying  any  apprehension  of  the  sentinel  who 
paced  its  length,  fearlessly  approached,  and  addressed  him 
with  the  confidence  of  a known  friend, — 

“See!”  he  said,  removing  the  calash  from  before  the 
pale  features  of  his  companion,  “ how  terror  for  the  fate  of 
her  husband  has  caused  the  good  child  to  weep  ! She  quits 
him  now,  friend,  with  one  of  her  attendants,  while  the  other 
tarries  to  administer  to  his  master’s  wants.  Look  at  her  ; 
is  ’t  not  a sweet,  though  mourning  partner,  to  smooth  the 
path  of  a soldier’s  life?  ” 

The  man  seemed  awkwardly  sensible  of  the  unusual 
charms  that  Ralph  so  unceremoniously  exhibited  to  his 
view ; and  while  he  stood  in  admiring  embarrassment, 
ashamed  to  gaze,  and  yet  unwilling  to  retire,  Cecil  traced 
the  light  footsteps  of  the  old  man  entering  the  room  occu- 
pied by  Meriton  and  the  stranger.  She  was  still  in  the  act 
of  veiling  her  features  from  the  eyes  of  the  sentinel,  when 
Ralph  reappeared,  attended  by  a figure  muffled  in  the  well- 
known  overcoat.  Notwithstanding  the  flopped  hat,  and 
studied  concealment  of  his  gait,  the  keen  eyes  of  the  wife 
penetrated  the  disguise  of  her  husband  ; and  recollecting,  at 


Xlonel  Lincoln 


395 


the  same  instant,  the  door  of  communication  between  the 
two  apartments,  the  whole  artifice  was  at  once  revealed. 
With  trembling  eagerness  she  glided  past  the  sentinel,  and 
pressed  to  the  side  of  Lionel,  with  a dependence  that  might 
have  betrayed  the  deception  to  one  more  accustomed  to  the 
forms  of  life,  than  was  the  honest  countryman  who  had  so 
recently  thrown  aside  the  flail  to  carry  a musket. 

Ralph  allowed  the  sentinel  no  time  to  deliberate  ; but 
waving  his  hand  in  token  of  adieu,  he  led  the  way  into  the 
street  with  his  accustomed  activity.  Here  they  found 
themselves  in  the  presence  of  the  other  soldier,  who  moved 
to  and  fro,  along  the  allotted  ground  in  front  of  the  build- 
ing, rendering  the  watchfulness  by  which  they  were  en- 
vironed, doubly  embarrassing.  Following  the  example  of 
their  aged  conductor,  Lionel  and  his  trembling  companion 
walked  with  apparent  indifference  towards  this  man,  who, 
as  it  proved,  was  better  deserving  of  his  trust  than  his 
fellow  within  doors.  Dropping  his  musket  across  their 
path,  in  a manner  which  announced  an  intention  to  inquire 
into  their  movements,  before  he  suffered  them  to  proceed, 
he  roughly  demanded, — 

“How ’s  this,  old  gentleman?  you  come  out  of  the 
prisoners’  rooms  by  squads  ! one,  two,  three  ; our  English 
gallant  might  be  among  you,  and  there  would  still  be  two 
left  ! Come,  come,  old  father,  render  some  account  of  your- 
self, and  of  your  command.  For,  to  be  plain  with  you, 
there  are  those  who  think  you  are  no  better  than  a spy  of 
Howe’s,  notwithstanding  you  are  left  to  run  up  and  down 
the  camp  as  you  please.  In  plain  Yankee  dialect,  and 
that  ’s  intelligible  English,  you  have  been  caught  in  bad 
company  of  late,  and  there  has  been  hard  talk  about  shut- 
ting you  up,  as  well  as  your  comrade.” 

“ Hear  ye  that?”  said  Ralph,  calmly  smiling,  and  ad- 
dressing himself  to  his  companions,  instead  of  the  man 
whose  interrogatories  he  was  expected  to  answer  ; “think 
you  the  hirelings  of  the  crown  are  thus  alert?  Would  not 
the  slaves  be  sleeping  the  moment  the  eyes  of  their  tyrants 
are  turned  on  their  own  lawless  pleasures  ? Thus  it  is  with 
liberty.  The  sacred  spirit  hallows  its  meanest  votaries, 


396 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


and  elevates  the  private  to  all  the  virtues  of  the  proudest 
captain  ! ’ ’ 

“Come,  come,”  returned  the  flattered  sentinel,  throwing 
his  musket  back  to  his  shoulder  again,  “I  believe  a man 
gains  nothing  by  battling  you  with  words.  I should  have 
spent  a year  or  two  inside  yonder  colleges  to  dive  at  all 
your  meaning.  Though  I can  guess  you  are  more  than 
half  right  in  one  thing  ; for  if  a poor  fellow,  who  loves  his 
country,  and  the  good  cause,  finds  it  so  hard  to  keep  his 
eyes  open  on  post,  what  must  it  be  to  a half-starved  devil 
on  sixpence  a day  ! Go  along,  go  along,  old  father  ; there 
is  one  less  of  you  than  went  in,  and  if  there  was  anything 
wrong,  the  man  in  the  house  should  know  it  ! ” 

As  he  concluded,  the  sentinel  continued  his  walk,  hum- 
ming a verse  of  Yankee  Doodle,  in  excellent  favor  with 
himself  and  all  mankind,  with  the  sweeping  exception  of 
his  country’s  enemies.  To  say  that  this  was  not  the  first 
instance  of  well-meaning  integrity  being  cajoled  by  the 
jargon  of  liberty,  might  be  an  assertion  too  hazardous  ; but 
that  it  has  been  the  last,  we  conscientiously  believe,  though 
no  immediate  example  may  present  itself  to  quote  in  sup- 
port of  such  heretical  credulity. 

Ralph  appeared,  however,  perfectly  innocent  of  intend- 
ing to  utter  more  than  the  spirit  of  the  times  justified  ; for, 
when  left  to  his  own  pleasure,  he  pursued  his  way,  mutter- 
ing rapidly  to  himself,  and  with  an  earnestness  that  attested 
his  sincerity.  When  they  had  turned  a corner,  at  a little 
distance  from  any  pressing  danger,  he  relaxed  in  his  move- 
ments, and,  suffering  his  eager  companions  to  approach,  he 
stole  to  the  side  of  Lionel,  and,  clenching  his  hand  fiercely, 
he  whispered,  in  a voice  half  choked  by  inward  exultation, — 
“ I have  him  now  ; he  is  no  longer  dangerous  ! Ay-— 
ay — I have  him  closely  watched  by  the  vigilance  of  three 
incorruptible  patriots  ! ” 

“Of  whom  speak  you?”  demanded  Lionel — “what  is 
his  offence,  and  where  is  your  captive  ? ’ ’ 

“A  dog!  a man  in  form,  but  a tiger  in  heart!  Ay! 
but  I have  him  !”  the  old  man  continued,  with  a hollow 
laugh,  that  seemed  to  heave  up  from  his  inmost  soul — “a 


^Lionel  Lincoln 


397 


dog  ; a veritable  dog  ! I have  him,  and  God  grant  that  he 
may  drink  the  cup  of  slavery  to  its  dregs  ! ” 

“Old  man,”  said  Lionel,  firmly,  “that  I have  followed 
you  thus  far  on  no  unworthy  errand,  you  best  may  testify  : 
I have  forgotten  the  oath  which,  at  the  altar,  I had  sworn 
to,  to  cherish  this  sweet  and  spotless  being  at  my  side,  at 
your  instigation,  aided  by  the  maddening  circumstances  of 
a moment ; but  the  delusion  has  already  passed  away  ! 
Here  we  part  forever,  unless  your  solemn  and  often-repeated 
promises  are  on  the  instant  redeemed.  ’ ’ 

The  high  exultation,  which  had  so  lately  rendered  the 
emaciated  countenance  of  Ralph  hideously  ghastly,  disap- 
peared like  a passing  shadow  ; and  he  listened  to  the  words 
of  Lionel  with  calm  and  settled  attention.  But  when  he 
would  have  answered,  he  was  interrupted  by  Cecil,  who 
uttered,  in  a voice  nearly  suppressed  by  her  fears,— 

“ O ! delay  not  a moment ! Let  us  proceed  anywhere,  or 
anyhow  even  : now  the  pursuers  may  be  on  our  track.  I 
am  strong,  dearest  Lionel,  and  will  follow  to  the  ends  of  the 
earth,  so  you  but  lead  ! ” 

“Lionel  Lincoln,  I have  not  deceived  thee!”  said  the 
old  man,  solemnly.  “Providence  has  already  led  us  on 
our  way,  and  a few  minutes  will  bring  us  to  our  goal — 
suffer,  then,  that  gentler  trembler  to  return  into  the  village, 
and  follow  ! ” 

“Not  an  inch!”  returned  Lionel,  pressing  Cecil  still 
closer  to  his  side  ; ‘ ‘ here  we  part,  or  your  promises  are 
fulfilled.” 

“ Nay,  go  with  him — go,”  again  whispered  the  being 
who  clung  to  him  in  trembling  dependence.  “This  very 
controversy  may  prove  your  ruin— did  I not  say  I would 
accompany  you,  Lincoln  ? ’ ’ 

“Lead  on,  then,”  said  her  husband,  motioning  Ralph  to 
proceed;  “once  again  will  I confide  in  you;  but  use  the 
trust  with  discretion,  for  my  guardian  spirit  is  at  hand  ; and 
remember,  thou  no  longer  leadest  a lunatic  ! ” 

The  moon  fell  upon  the  wan  features  of  the  old  man, 
and  exhibited  their  contented  smile,  as  he  silently  turned 
away,  and  resumed  his  progress  with  his  wonted  rapid  and 


39  8 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


noiseless  tread.  Their  route  still  lay  towards  the  skirts  of 
the  village.  While  the  buildings  of  the  University  were  yet 
in  the  near  view,  and  the  loud  laugh  of  the  idlers  about  the 
inn,  with  the  frequent  challenges  of  the  sentinels,  were  still 
distinctly  audible,  their  conductor  bent  his  way  beneath  the 
walls  of  a church,  that  rose  in  solemn  solitude  in  the  decep- 
tive light  of  the  evening.  Pointing  upward  at  its  somewhat 
unusual,  because  regular  architecture,  Ralph  muttered,  as 
he  passed, — 

“ Here,  at  least,  God  possesses  his  own,  without  insult ! ” 
Uionel  and  Cecil  slightly  glanced  their  eyes  at  the  silent 
walls,  and  followed  into  a small  inclosure,  through  a gap  in 
its  humble  and  dilapidated  fence.  Here  the  former  again 
paused,  and  spoke, — 

“ I will  go  no  further,”  he  said,  unconsciously  strengthen- 
ing the  declaration  by  placing  his  foot  firmly  on  a mound  of 
frozen  earth,  in  an  attitude  of  resistance;  “’tis  time  to 
cease  thinking  of  self,  and  to  listen  to  the  weakness  of  her 
whom  I support ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Think  not  of  me,  dearest  Lincoln — ’ ’ 

Cecil  was  interrupted  by  the  voice  of  the  old  man,  who, 
raising  his  hat,  and  baring  his  gray  locks  to  the  mild  rays 
of  the  planet,  answered  with  tremulous  emotion — 

‘ ‘ Thy  task  is  already  ended  ! Thou  hast  reached  the 
spot,  where  moulder  the  bones  of  one  who  long  supported 
thee.  Unthinking  boy,  that  sacrilegious  foot  treads  on  thy 
mother’s  grave  ! ” 


CHAPTER  XXXII. 


“ O,  age  has  weary  days, 

And  nights  o*  sleepless  pain  ! 

Thou  golden  time  o*  youthful  prime  ! 

Why  com’st  thou  not  again  ? ” 

Burns. 

THE  stillness  that  succeeded  this  unexpected  an- 
nunciation was  like  the  cold  silence  of  those  who 
slumbered  on  every  side  of  them.  Eionel  re- 
coiled a pace,  in  horror ; then,  imitating  the 
action  of  the  old  man,  he  uncovered  his  head,  in  pious 
reverence  of  the  parent  whose  form  floated  dimly  in  his 
imagination,  like  the  earliest  recollections  of  infancy,  or 
the  imperfect  fancies  of  some  dream.  When  time  was 
given  for  these  sudden  emotions  to  subside,  he  turned  to 
Ralph,  and  said, — 

‘ ‘ And  was  it  here  that  you  would  bring  me,  to  listen  to 
the  sorrows  of  my  family  ? ’ ’ 

An  expression  of  piteous  anguish  crossed  the  features  of 
the  other,  as  he  answered,  in  a voice  which  was  subdued  tc 
softness,— 

“Even  here — here,  in  the  presence  of  thy  mother’s  grave, 
shalt  thou  hear  the  tale  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ Then  let  it  be  here  ! ’ ’ said  Eionel,  whose  eye  was 
already  kindling  with  a wild  and  disordered  meaning,  that 
curdled  the  blood  of  the  anxious  Cecil,  who  watched  its 
expression  with  a woman’s  solicitude.  “ Here,  on  this  hal- 
lowed spot,  will  I listen,  and  swear  the  vengeance  that  is 
due,  if  all  thy  previous  intimations  should  be  just — ” 

“No,  no,  no — listen  not — tarry  not!”  said  Cecil,  cling- 


400 


%\onci  ^Lincoln 


in g to  his  side  in  undisguised  alarm  : ‘ ‘ Lincoln,  you  are  not 
equal  to  the  scene  ! ’ ’ 

“ I am  equal  to  anything  in  such  a cause.’ * 

“Nay,  Lionel,  you  overrate  your  powers  ! Think  only 
of  your  safety,  now  ; at  another,  and  happier  moment,  you 
shall  know  all — yes — I — Cecil — thy  bride,  thy  wife,  promise 
that  all  shall  be  revealed — ’ ’ 

“ Thou  ! ” 

“It  is  the  descendant  of  the  widow  of  John  Lechmere 
who  speaks,  and  thy  ears  will  not  refuse  the  sounds,”  said 
Ralph,  with  a smile  that  acted  like  a taunt  on  the  awak- 
ened impulses  of  the  young  man.  “Go — thou  art  fitter  for 

a bridal  than  a churchyard  ! ” 

“ I have  told  you  that  I am  equal  to  anything,”  sternly 
answered  Lionel ; “ here  will  I sit,  on  this  humble  tablet,  to 
hear  all  that  you  can  utter,  though  the  rebel  legions  encircle 
me  to  my  death  ! ’ ’ 

“What!  dar’st  brave  the  averted  eye  of  one  so  dear  to 
thy  heart  ? ’ ’ 

“All,  or  anything,”  exclaimed  the  excited  youth,  “with 
so  pious  an  object.” 

“ Bravely  answered  ! and  thy  reward  is  nigh — nay,  look 
not  on  the  siren,  or  thou  wilt  relent.” 

“ My  wife  ! ” said  Lionel,  extending  his  hand,  kindly, 
towards  the  shrinking  form  of  Cecil. 

“Thy  mother!”  interrupted  Ralph,  pointing  with  his 
emaciated  hand  to  the  cold  residence  of  the  dead. 

Lionel  sunk  on  the  dilapidated  grave-stone  to  which  he 
had  just  alluded,  and  gathering  his  coat  about  him,  he  rested 
an  arm  upon  his  knee,  while  his  hand  supported  his  quiver- 
ing chin,  as  if  he  were  desperately  bent  on  his  gloomy  pur- 
pose. The  old  man  smiled  with  his  usually  ghastly  expres- 
sion, as  he  witnessed  this  proof  of  his  success,  and  he  took 
a similar  seat  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  grave,  which 
seemed  the  focus  of  their  common  interest.  Here  he  dropped 
his  face  between  his  hands,  and  appeared  to  muse,  like  one 
who  was  collecting  his  thoughts  for  the  coming  emergency. 
During  this  short  and  impressive  pause,  Lionel  felt  the 
trembling  form  of  Cecil  drawing  to  his  side  ; and  before  his 


Xionel  Xincoln 


401 


aged  companion  spoke,  her  unveiled  and  pallid  countenance 
was  once  more  watching  the  changes  of  his  own  features,  iry 
submissive,  but  anxious  attention. 

“Thou  knowest  already,  Lionel  Lincoln,'’  commenced 
Ralph,  slowly  raising  his  body  to  an  upright  attitude,  “ how 
in  past  ages,  thy  family  sought  these  colonies,  to  find  relig- 
ious quiet,  and  the  peace  of  the  just.  And  thou  also  know- 
est,— for  often  did  we  beguile  the  long  watches  of  the  night 
in  discoursing  of  these  things,  while  the  never-tiring  ocean 
was  rolling  its  waters  unheeded  around, — how  Death  came 
into  its  elder  branch,  which  still  dwelt  amid  the  luxury  and 
corruption  of  the  English  court,  and  left  thy  father  the  heir 
of  all  its  riches  and  honors.” 

‘ ‘ How  much  of  this  is  unknown  to  the  meanest  gossip  in 
the  province  of  Massachusetts  Bay?”  interrupted  the  im- 
patient Lionel. 

“ But  they  do  not  know,  that,  for  years  before  this  accu^ 
mulation  of  fortune  actually  occurred,  it  was  deemed  to  be 
inevitable  by  the  decrees  of  Providence  ; they  do  not  know 
how  much  more  value  the  orphan  son  of  the  unprovided 
soldier  found  in  the  eyes  of  those  even  of  his  own  blood,  by 
the  expectation  ; nor  do  they  know  how  the  worldly-minded 
Priscilla  Lechmere,  thy  father’s  aunt,  would  have  compassed 
heaven  and  earth,  to  have  seen  that  wealth,  and  those  hon- 
ors, to  which  it  was  her  greatest  boast  to  claim  alliance, 
descend  in  the  line  of  her  own  body.  ’ ’ 

“ But  ’t  was  impossible  ! She  was  of  the  female  branch  ; 
neither  had  she  a son  ! ’ ’ 

“Nothing  seems  impossible  to  those  on  whose  peace  of 
mind  the  worm  of  ambition  feeds  ; thou  knowest  well  she 
left  a grandchild  ; had  not  that  child  a mother?  ” 

Lionel  felt  a painful  conviction  of  the  connection,  as  the 
trembling  object  of  these  remarks  sunk  her  head  in  shame 
and  sorrow  on  his  bosom,  keenly  alive  to  the  justice  of  the 
character  drawn  of  her  deceased  relative,  by  the  mysterious 
being  who  had  just  spoken. 

“ God  forbid,  that  I,  a Christian,  and  a gentleman,”  con- 
tinued the  old  man,  a little  proudly,  “ should  utter  a syllable 
to  taint  the  spotless  name  of  one  so  free  from  blemish  as 


402 


Xfonel  Xtncoln 


she  of  whom  I speak.  The  sweet  child  who  clings  to  thee, 
in  dread,  Lionel,  was  not  more  pure  and  innocent  than  she 
who  bore  her.  And  long  before  ambition  had  wove  its 
toils  for  the  miserable  Priscilla,  the  heart  of  her  daughter 
was  the  property  of  the  gallant  and  honorable  Englishman, 
to  whom  in  later  years  she  was  wedded.  ’ ’ 

As  Cecil  heard  this  soothing  commendation  of  her  more 
immediate  parents,  she  again  raised  her  face  into  the  light 
of  the  moon,  and  remained,  where  she  was  already  kneeling, 
at  the  side  of  Lionel,  no  longer  an  uneasy,  but  a deeply  in- 
terested listener  to  what  followed. 

‘ ‘ As  the  wishes  of  my  unhappy  aunt  were  not  realized, 9 9 
said  Major  Lincoln,  “in  what  manner  could  they  affect  the 
fortunes  of  my  father  ? 9 9 

‘ ‘ Thou  shalt  hear.  In  the  same  dwelling  lived  another, 
even  fairer,  and,  to  the  eye,  as  pure  as  the  daughter  of  Pris- 
cilla. She  was  the  relative,  the  god-child,  and  the  ward  of 
that  miserable  woman.  The  beauty,  and  seeming  virtues  of 
this  apparent  angel  in  human  form,  caught  the  young  eye  of 
thy  father,  and,  in  defiance  of  arts  and  schemes,  before  the  long- 
expected  title  and  fortune  came,  they  were  wedded,  and  thou 
wert  born,  Lionel,  to  render  the  boon  of  Fate  doubly  welcome.” 

‘ ‘ And  then — 9 9 

“ And  then  thy  father  hastened  to  the  land  of  his  ances- 
tors, to  claim  his  own,  and  to  prepare  the  way  for  the  re- 
ception of  yourself,  and  his  beloved  Priscilla, — for  then 
there  were  two  Priscillas  ; and  now  both  sleep  with  the 
dead  ! All  having  life  and  nature  can  claim  the  quiet  of 
the  grave,  but  I,”  continued  the  old  man,  glancing  his  hol- 
low eye  upwards,  with  a look  of  hopeless  misery, — u I,  who 
have  seen  ages  pass  since  the  blood  of  youth  has  been 
chilled,  and  generation  after  generation  swept  away,  must 
still  linger  in  the  haunts  of  men  ! but  ’t  is  to  aid  in  the  great 
work  which  commences  here,  but  which  shall  not  end  until 
a continent  be  regenerated. 9 9 

Lionel  suffered  a minute  to  pass  without  a question,  in 
deference  to  this  burst  of  feeling  ; but  soon,  making  an  im- 
patient movement,  it  drew  the  eyes  of  Ralph  once  more 
upon  him,  and  the  old  man  continued, — 


Xionet  Xincoln 


403 


“ Month  after  month,  for  two  long  and  tedious  years,  did 
thy  father  linger  in  England,  struggling  for  his  own.  At 
length  he  prevailed.  He  then  hastened  hither  ; but  there 
was  no  wife, — no  fond  and  loving  Priscilla,  like  that  tender 
flower  that  reposes  in  thy  bosom,  to  welcome  his  return.” 

“ I know  it,”  said  Lionel,  nearly  choked  by  his  pious 
recollections  ; “ she  was  dead.” 

4 ‘She  was  more,”  returned  Ralph,  in  a voice  so  deep,  that 
it  sounded  like  one  speaking  from  the  grave : ‘ ‘ she  was 
dishonored  ! ’ ’ 

“’T is  false!” 

“’Tis  true! — true  as  that  holy  gospel  which  comes  to 
men  through  the  inspired  ministers  of  God  ! ’ 9 

“’Tis  false!”  repeated  Lionel,  fiercely;  “blacker  than 
the  darkest  thoughts  of  the  foul  spirit  of  evil ! ’ ’ 

“ I say,  rash  boy,  ’t  is  true  ! She  died  in  giving  birth  to 
the  fruits  of  her  infamy.  When  Priscilla  Lechmere  met 
thy  heart-stricken  parent  with  the  damning  tale,  he  read  in 
her  exulting  eye  the  treason  of  her  mind,  and,  like  thee,  he 
dared  to  call  Heaven  to  witness  that  thy  mother  was  de- 
famed. But  there  was  one  known  to  him,  under  circum- 
stances that  forbade  the  thoughts  of  deceit,  who  swore — 
ay,  took  the  blessed  name  of  Him  who  reads  all  hearts,  for 
warranty  of  her  truth  ! and  she  confirmed  it.  ’ ’ 

“ The  infamous  seducer  ! ” said  Lionel,  hoarsely,  his  body 
turning  unconsciously  away  from  Cecil ; ‘ ‘ does  he  yet  live  ? 
Give  him  to  my  vengeance,  old  man,  and  I will  yet  bless 
you  for  your  accursed  history  ! 9 ’ 

“Lionel,  Lionel,”  said  the  soothing  voice  of  his  bride, 
‘ ‘ do  you  credit  him  ? ’ ’ 

“ Credit  him  ! ” said  Ralph,  with  a horrid,  inward  laugh, 
as  if  he  would  deride  the  idea  of  incredulity  ; “all  this  must 
he  believe,  and  more ! Once  again,  weak  girl,  did  thy 
grandmother  throw  out  her  lures  for  the  wealthy  baronet, 
and  when  he  would  not  become  her  son,  then  did  she  league 
with  the  spirits  of  hell  to  compass  his  ruin.  Revenge  took 
place  of  ambition,  and  thy  husband’s  father  was  the  victim  ! ” 
‘ ‘ Say  on  ! ” cried  Lionel,  nearly  ceasing  to  breathe  in  the 
intensity  of  his  interest. 


404 


Xiortel  Xtncoln 


‘ ‘ The  blow  had  cut  him  to  the  heart ; and,  for  a time,  his 
reason  was  crushed  beneath  its  weight.  Yet  ’t  was  but  for 
an  hour,  compared  to  the  eternity  a man  is  doomed  to  live  ! 
They  profited  by  the  temporary  derangement,  and  when  his 
wandering  faculties  were  lulled  to  quiet,  he  found  himself 
the  tenant  of  a madhouse,  where,  for  twenty  long  years,  was 
he  herded  with  the  defaced  images  of  his  Maker,  by  the  arts 
of  the  base  widow  of  John  Lechmere.  ” 

‘‘Can  this  be  true?  Can  this  be  true?”  cried  Lionel, 
clasping  his  hands  wildly,  and  springing  to  his  feet,  with  a 
violence  that  cast  the  tender  form  that  still  clung  to  him, 
aside,  like  a worthless  toy.  “Can  this  be  proved?  How 
knowest  thou  these  facts  ? ’ ’ 

The  calm,  but  melancholy  smile  that  was  wont  to  light 
the  wan  features  of  the  old  man,  when  he  alluded  to  his  own 
existence,  was  once  more  visible,  as  he  answered, — 

“ There  is  but  little  hid  from  the  knowledge  acquired  by 
length  of  days.  Besides,  have  I not  secret  means  of  intelli- 
gence that  are  unknown  to  thee  ? Remember  what,  in  our 
frequent  interviews,  I have  revealed  ; recall  the  death-bed 
scene  of  Priscilla  Rechmere,  and  ask  thyself  if  there  be  not 
truth  in  thy  aged  friend.” 

‘ ‘ Give  me  all  ! hold  not  back  a tittle  of  thy  accursed  tale 
— give  me  all — or  take  back  each  syllable  thou  hast  uttered  ! ’ ’ 
“Thou  shalt  have  all  thou  askest,  Lionel  Lincoln,  and 
more,”  returned  Ralph,  throwing  into  his  manner  and  voice 
its  utmost  powers  of  solemnity  and  persuasion  ; ‘ ‘ provided 
thou  wilt  swear  eternal  hatred  to  that  country  and  those 
laws,  by  which  an  innocent  and  unoffending  man  can  be 
levelled  with  the  beasts  of  the  field,  and  be  made  to  rave 
even  at  his  Maker,  in  the  bitterness  of  his  sufferings.” 

‘ ‘ More  than  that — ten  thousand  times  more  than  that, 
will  I swear  ; I will  league  with  this  rebellion — ” 

“Lionel,  Lionel,  what  is’t  you  do?”  interrupted  the 
heart-stricken  Cecil. 

But  her  voice  was  stilled  by  loud  and  busy  cries,  which 
broke  out  of  the  village,  above  the  hum  of  revelry,  and  was 
instantly  succeeded  by  the  trampling  of  footsteps,  as  men 
rushed  over  the  frozen  ground,  apparently  by  hundreds,  and 


Xionel  Xincolrt 


40s 


with  headlong  rapidity.  Ralph,  who  was  not  less  quick  to 
hear  these  sounds  than  the  timid  bride,  glided  from  the 
grave,  and  approached  the  highway,  whither  he  was  slowly 
followed  by  his  companions ; Lionel  utterly  indifferent 
whither  he  proceeded,  and  Cecil  trembling  in  every  limb 
with  terror  for  the  safety  of  him  who  so  little  regarded  his 
own  danger. 

“ They  are  abroad  and  think  to  find  an  enemy,”  said  the 
old  man,  raising  his  hand  with  a gesture  to  command  atten- 
tion ; “ but  he  has  sworn  to  join  their  standards,  and  gladly 
will  they  receive  any  of  his  name  and  family  ! ’ ’ 

“No,  no,  he  has  pledged  himself  to  no  dishonor,”  cried 
Cecil.  “Fly,  Lincoln,  while  you  are  free,  and  leave  me  to 
meet  the  pursuers  ; they  will  respect  my  weakness.” 

Fortunately,  the  allusion  to  herself  awakened  Lionel  from 
the  dull  forgetfulness  into  which  his  faculties  had  fallen. 
Encircling  her  slight  figure  with  his  arm,  he  turned  swiftly 
from  the  spot,  saying,  as  he  urged  her  forward, — 

“Old  man,  when  this  precious  charge  is  in  safety,  thy 
truth  or  falsehood  shall  be  proved.” 

But  Ralph,  whose  unincumbered  person  and  iron  frame, 
which  seemed  to  mock  the  ravages  of  time,  gave  a vast 
superiority  over  the  impeded  progress  of  the  other,  moved 
swiftly  ahead,  waving  his  hand  on  high,  as  if  to  indicate  his 
intention  to  join  in  the  flight,  while  he  led  the  way  into  the 
fields  adjacent  to  the  cliurch}mrd  they  had  quitted. 

The  noise  of  the  pursuers  soon  became  more  distinct,  and, 
in  the  intervals  of  the  distant  cannonade,  the  cries  and 
directions  of  those  who  conducted  the  chase  were  distinctly 
audible.  Notwithstanding  the  vigorous  arm  of  her  sup- 
porter, Cecil  was  soon  sensible  that  her  delicate  frame  was 
unequal  to  continue  the  exertions  necessary  to  insure  their 
safety.  They  had  entered  another  road,  which  lay  at  no 
great  distance  from  the  first,  when  she  paused,  and  reluc- 
tantly declared  her  inability  to  proceed. 

“Then,  here  will  we  wait  our  captors,”  said  Lionel,  with 
forced  composure : “let  the  rebels  beware  how  they  abuse 
their  slight  advantage  ! ” 

The  words  were  scarcely  uttered,  when  a cart,  drawn  by 


40  6 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


a double  team,  turned  an  angle  in  the  highway  near  them, 
and  its  driver  appeared  within  a few  feet  of  the  spot  where 
they  stood.  He  was  a man  far  advanced  in  years,  but  still 
wielded  his  long  goad  with  a dexterity  which  had  been 
imparted  by  the  practice  of  more  than  half  a century.  The 
sight  of  this  man,  alone,  and  removed  from  immediate  aid, 
suggested  a desperate  thought  for  self-preservation  to  Lionel. 
Quitting  the  side  of  his  exhausted  companion,  he  advanced 
upon  him  with  an  air  so  fierce,  that  it  might  have  created 
alarm  in  one  who  had  the  smallest  reason  to  apprehend  any 
danger. 

“Whither  go  you  with  that  cart?”  sternly  demanded 
the  young  man  on  the  instant. 

“To  the  Point,”  was  the  ready  answer.  “Yes,  yes — 
old  and  young — big  and  little — men  and  cre’turs — four- 
wheels  and  two-wheels — everything  goes  to  the  Point  to- 
night, as  you  can  guess,  fri’nd  ! Why,”  he  continued, 
dropping  one  end  of  his  goad  on  the  ground,  and  supporting 
himself  by  grasping  it  with  both  his  hands  ; “I  was  eighty- 
three  the  fourteenth  of  the  last  March,  and  I hope,  God 
willing,  that  when  the  next  birthday  comes,  there  won’t  be 
a red-coat  left  in  the  town  of  Boston.  To  my  notion,  fri’nd, 
they  have  held  the  place  long  enough,  and  it ’s  time  to  quit. 
My  boys  are  in  the  camp,  soldiering  a turn  ; the  old  woman 
has  been  as  busy  as  a bee,  sin’  sun-down,  helping  me  to  load 
up  what  you  see,  and  I am  carrying  it  over  to  Dorchester, 
and  not  a farthing  shall  it  ever  cost  the  Congress  ! ’ * 

“And  are  you  going  to  Dorchester  Neck  with  your 
bundles  of  hay  ? ’ ’ said  Lionel,  eying  both  him  and  his 
passing  team,  in  hesitation  whether  to  attempt  violence  on 
one  so  infirm  and  helpless. 

“Anan!  you  must  speak  up,  soldier- fashion,  as  you  did 
at  first,  for  I am  a little  deaf,”  returned  the  carter.  “Yes, 
yes,  they  spared  me  in  the  press,  for  they  said  I had  done 
enough  ; but  I say  a man  has  never  done  enough  for  his 
own  country,  when  anything  is  left  to  be  done.  I ’m  told 
they  are  carrying  over  fashines,  as  they  call  ’em,  and  pressed 
hay,  for  their  forts.  As  hay  is  more  in  my  fashion  than 
any  other  fashion,  I ’ve  bundled  up  a stout  pile  on ’t  here  ; 


Xionel  Xtncoln 


407 


and  if  that  won’t  do,  why,  let  Washington  come  ; he  is 
welcome  to  the  barn,  stacks  and  all  ! ” 

“ While  you  are  so  liberal  to  the  Congress,  can  you  help  a 
female  in  distress,  who  would  wish  to  go  in  the  direction  of 
your  route,  but  is  too  feeble  to  walk  ? ’ ’ 

“ With  all  my  heart,”  said  the  other,  turning  round  in 
quest  of  her  whom  he  was  desired  to  assist.  ‘ ‘ I hope  she 
is  handy  ; for  the  night  wears  on,  and  I should  n’t  like  to 
have  the  English  send  a bullet  at  our  people  on  Dorchester 
hills,  before  my  hay  gets  there,  to  help  stop  it.” 

“She  shall  not  detain  you  an  instant,”  said  Lionel, 
springing  to  the  place  where  Cecil  stood,  partly  concealed 
by  the  fence,  and  supporting  her  to  the  side  of  the  rude 
vehicle  ; “ you  shall  be  amply  rewarded  for  this  service.” 

‘ ‘ Reward  ! Perhaps  she  is  the  wife  or  daughter  of  a 
soldier,  in  which  case  she  should  be  drawn  in  her  coach  and 
four,  instead  of  a cart  and  double  team.” 

'‘Yes,  yes — you  are  right,  she  is  both — the  wife  of  one, 
and  the  daughter  of  another  soldier.” 

‘ ‘ Ay  ! God  bless  her  ! I warrant  me  old  Put  was  more 
than  half  right,  when  he  said  the  women  would  stop  the 
two  ridgments,  that  the  proud  parliamenter  boasted  could 
march  through  the  colonies,  from  Hampshire  to  Georgi’. 
Well,  fri’nds,  are  ye  situated?  ” 

“Perfectly,”  said  Lionel,  who  had  been  preparing  seats 
for  himself  and  Cecil,  among  the  bundles  of  hay,  and  assist- 
ing his  companion  into  her  place  during  the  dialogue  ; “we 
will  detain  you  no  longer.  ’ ’ 

The  carter,  who  was  no  less  than  the  owner  of  a hundred 
acres  of  good  land  in  the  vicinity,  signified  his  readiness  ; 
and  sweeping  through  the  air  with  his  goad,  he  brought  his 
cattle  to  the  proper  direction,  and  slowly  moved  on.  Dur- 
ing this  hurried  scene,  Ralph  had  continued  hid  by  the 
shadows  of  the  fence.  When  the  cart  proceeded,  he  waved 
his  hand,  and  gliding  across  the  road,  was  soon  lost  to  the 
eye  in  the  misty  distance,  with  which  his  gray  apparel 
blended,  like  a spectre  vanishing  in  air. 

In  the  meantime  the  pursuers  had  not  been  idle.  Voices 
were  heard  in  different  directions,  and  dim  forms  were  to  be 


Xtonel  Lincoln 


408 


seen  rushing  through  the  fields,  by  the  aid  of  the  deceptive 
light  of  the  moon.  To  add  to  the  embarrassment  of  their 
situation,  Lionel  found,  when  too  late,  that  the  route  to 
Dorchester  lay  directly  through  the  village  of  Cambridge. 
When  he  perceived  they  were  approaching  the  streets,  he 
would  have  left  the  cart,  had  not  the  experiment  been  too 
dangerous,  in  the  midst  of  the  disturbed  soldiery,  who  now 
flew  by  on  every  side  of  them.  In  such  a strait,  his  safest 
course  was  to  continue  motionless  and  silent,  secreting  his 
own  form,  and  that  of  Cecil,  as  much  as  possible,  among  the 
bundles  of  hay.  Contrary  to  all  the  just  expectations  which 
the  impatient  patriotism  of  the  old  yeoman  had  excited, 
instead  of  driving  steadily  through  the  place,  he  turned  his 
cattle  a little  from  the  direct  route,  and  stopped  in  front  of 
the  very  inn  where  Cecil  had  so  lately  been  conducted  by 
her  guide  from  the  Point. 

Here  the  same  noisy  and  thoughtless  revelry  existed  as 
before.  The  arrival  of  such  an  equipage  at  once  drew  a 
crowd  to  the  spot,  and  the  uneasy  pair  on  the  top  of  the 
load  became  unwilling  listeners  to  the  conversation. 

“ What,  old  one,  hard  at  it  for  Congress  ! ” cried  a man 
approaching  with  a mug  in  his  hand;  “come,  wet  your 
throat,  my  venerable  Father  of  Liberty,  for  you  are  too  old 
to  be  a son  ! ’ ’ 

“Yes,  yes,”  answered  the  exulting  farmer,  “I  am  father 
and  son,  too  ! I have  four  boys  in  camp,  and  seven  grand- 
’uns  in  the  bargain  ; and  that  would  be  eleven  good  triggers 
in  one  family,  if  five  good  muskets  had  so  many  locks — 
but  the  youngest  men  have  got  a ducking-gun,  and  a double- 
barrel  atween  them,  howsomever  ; and  Aaron  the  boy  carries 
as  good  a horse-pistol,  I calculate,  as  any  there  is  going  in 
the  Bay  ! But  what  an  easy  time  you  have  on  ’t  to-night ! 
There  ’s  more  powder  spent  in  mocking  thunder,  than 
would  fight  old  Bunker  over  again,  at  ‘ white  o’  the  eye  ’ 
distance  ! ’ ’ 

“ ’T  is  the  way  of  war,  old  man  ; and  we  want  to  keep 
the  reg’lars  from  looking  at  Dorchester.” 

“If  they  did,  they  couldn’t  see  far  to-night.  But,  now, 
do  tell  me  ; I am  an  old  man,  and  have  a grain  of  cur’osity 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


409 


in  the  flesh  ; my  woman  says  that  Howe  casts  out  his 
carcasses  at  you  ; which  I hold  to  be  an  irreligious  decep- 
tion.” 

“ As  true  as  the  gospel.” 

“ Well,  there  is  no  calculating  on  the  wastefulness  of  an 
ungodly  spirit ! ’ ’ said  the  worthy  yeoman,  shaking  his  head, 
“ I could  believe  any  wickedness  in  him  but  that  ! As  cre’- 
turs  must  be  getting  scarce  in  the  town,  I conclude  he  makes 
use  of  his  own  slain  ? ’ ’ 

“ Certain,”  answered  the  soldier,  winking  at  his  com- 
panions: “Breed’s  hill  has  kept  him  in  ammunition  all 
winter.” 

“ ’T  is  awful,  awful  ! to  see  a fellow-cre’tur  flying  though 
the  air,  after  the  spirit  has  departed  to  judgment ! War  is  a 
dreadful  calling  ; but,  then,  what  is  a man  without  liberty  ! ” 

“ Hark  ye,  old  gentleman,  talking  of  flying,  have  you  seen 
anything  of  two  men  and  a woman,  flying  up  the  road  as  you 
came  in  ? ” 

“ Anan  ! I ’m  a little  hard  o’  hearing — women,  too  ! do 
they  shoot  their  Jezebels  into  our  camp  ? There  is  no  wick- 
edness the  king’s  ministers  won’t  attempt,  to  circumvent  our 
weak  naturs  ! ’ ’ 

“ Did  you  see  two  men  and  a woman,  running  away  as 
you  came  down  the  road?  ” bawled  the  fellow,  in  his  ear. 

“Two!  did  you  say  two ?”  asked  the  yeoman,  turning 
his  head  a little  on  one  side,  in  an  attitude  of  sagacious 
musing. 

“ Yes,  two  men.” 

“ No,  I did  n’t  see  two.  Running  out  of  town,  did  you 
say  ? ” 

“ Ay,  running,  as  if  the  devil  was  after  them.” 

“ No  ; I did  n’t  see  two,  nor  anybody  running  away — it  ’s 
a sartain  sign  of  guilt  to  run  away — is  there  any  reward  of- 
fered?” said  the  old  man,  suddenly  interrupting  himself, 
and  again  communing  with  his  own  thoughts. 

“ Not  yet — they  ’ve  just  escaped.” 

‘ ‘ The  surest  way  to  catch  a thief  is  to  offer  a smart  re- 
ward : no — I did  n’t  see  two  men  ; you  are  sartain  there  was 
two  ? ” 


4io 


%ioncl  Xtncoln 


‘"Push  on  with  that  cart!  drive  on,  drive  on,”  cried  a 
mounted  officer  of  the  quartermaster’s  department,  who 
came  scouring  through  the  street  at  that  moment,  awaken- 
ing all  the  slumbering  ideas  of  haste,  which  the  old  farmer 
had  suffered  to  lie  dormant  so  long.  Once  more  flourishing 
his  goad,  he  put  his  team  in  motion,  wishing  the  revellers 
good  night  as  he  proceeded.  It  was,  however,  long  after  he 
had  left  the  village,  and  crossed  the  Charles,  before  he  ceased 
to  make  frequent  and  sudden  halts  in  the  highway,  as  if 
doubtful  whether  to  continue  his  route,  or  to  return.  At 
length  he  stopped  the  cart,  and,  clambering  up  on  the  hay, 
he  took  a seat,  where  with  one  eye  he  could  regulate  his 
cattle,  and  with  the  other  examine  his  companions.  This 
investigation  continued  another  hour,  neither  party  uttering 
a syllable,  when  the  teamster  appeared  satisfied  that  his 
suspicions  were  unjust,  and  abandoned  them.  Perhaps  the 
difficulties  of  the  road  assisted  in  dissipating  his  doubts  ; for 
as  they  proceeded,  return  carts  were  met,  at  every  few  rods, 
rendering  his  undivided  attention  to  his  own  team  indis- 
pensable. 

Lionel,  whose  gloomy  thoughts  had  been  chased  from  his 
mind  by  the  constant  excitement  of  the  foregoing  scenes, 
now  felt  relieved  from  any  immediate  apprehensions.  He 
whispered  his  soothing  hopes  of  a final  escape  to  Cecil,  and 
folding  her  in  his  coat,  to  shield  her  from  the  night-air,  he 
was  pleased  to  find,  ere  long,  by  her  gentle  breathing,  that, 
overcome  by  fatigue,  she  was  slumbering  in  forgetfulness  on 
his  bosom. 

Midnight  had  long  passed  when  they  came  in  sight  of  the 
eminences  beyond  Dorchester  Neck.  Cecil  had  awoke,  and 
Lionel  was  already  devising  some  plausible  excuse  for  quit- 
ting the  cart,  without  reviving  the  suspicions  of  the  team- 
ster. At  length  a favorable  spot  occurred,  where  they  were 
alone,  and  the  formation  of  the  ground  was  adapted  to  such 
a purpose.  Lionel  was  on  the  point  of  speaking,  when  the 
cattle  stopped,  and  Ralph  suddenly  appeared  in  the  highway, 
at  their  heads. 

“ Make  room,  fri’nd,  for  the  oxen,”  said  the  farmer, — 
“ dumb  beasts  won’t  pass  in  the  face  of  man.” 


Xtonel  Xtncoln 


411 


“ Alight ! ” said  Ralph,  seconding  his  words  with  a wide 
sweep  of  his  arm  towards  the  fields. 

Rionel  quickly  obeyed,  and,  by  the  time  the  driver  had 
descended  also,  the  whole  party  stood  together  in  the 
road. 

“ You  have  conferred  a greater  obligation  than  you  are 
aware  of,”  said  Lionel  to  the  driver.  “ Here  are  five 
guineas.  ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ For  what  ? for  riding  on  a load  of  hay  a few  miles  ? — no, 
no  ; kindness  is  no  such  boughten  article  in  the  Bay,  that  a 
man  need  pay  for  it.  But  fri’nd,  money  seems  plenty  with 
you  for  these  difficult  days  ! ’ ’ 

“ Then  thanks,  a thousand  times — I can  stay  to  offer  you 
no  more.” 

He  was  yet  speaking,  when,  obedient  to  an  impatient 
gesture  from  Ralph,  he  lifted  Cecil  over  the  fence,  and  in  a 
moment  they  disappeared  from  the  eyes  of  the  astonished 
farmer. 

“ Halloo,  fri’nd  ! ” cried  the  worthy  advocate  for  his  coun- 
try, running  after  them  as  fast  as  old  age  would  allow,  ‘ 'were 
there  three  of  you,  when  I took  ye  up  ? ” 

The  fugitives  heard  the  call  of  the  simple  and  garrulous  old 
man,  but,  as  easily  will  be  imagined,  did  not  deem  it  prudent 
to  stop  and  discuss  the  point  in  question  between  them.  Be- 
fore they  had  gone  far,  the  furious  cry  of  ‘ ‘ Take  care  of  that 
team  ! ’ ’ with  the  rattling  of  wheels,  announced  that  their 
pursuer  was  recalled  to  his  duty,  by  an  arrival  of  empty 
wagons  ; and,  before  the  distance  rendered  sounds  unintelli- 
gible, they  heard  the  noisy  explanation,  which  their  late  com- 
panion was  giving  to  the  others,  of  the  whole  transaction. 
They  were  not,  however,  pursued ; the  teamsters  having 
more  pressing  objects  in  view  than  the  detection  of  thieves,  or 
even  of  pocketing  a reward. 

Ralph  led  his  companions,  after  a brief  explanation,  by  a 
long  and  circuitous  path  to  the  shores  of  the  bay.  Here 
they  found,  hid  in  the  rushes  of  a shallow  inlet,  a small  boat, 
that  Tionel  recognized  as  the  little  vessel  in  which  Job  Pray 
was  wont  to  pursue  his  usual  avocation  of  a fisherman. 
Entering  it  without  delay,  he  seized  the  oars,  and  aided  by  a 


412 


Xionel  Xincoln 


flowing  tide,  he  industriously  urged  it  towards  the  distant 
spires  of  Boston. 

The  parting  shades  of  the  night  were  yet  struggling  witl  i 
the  advance  of  day,  when  a powerful  flash  of  light  illumi  * 
nated  the  hazy  horizon,  and  the  roar  of  cannon,  which  had 
ceased  towards  morning,  was  again  heard.  But  this  time 
the  sounds  came  from  the  water,  and  a cloud  rose  above  the 
smoking  harbor,  announcing  that  the  ships  were  again  en- 
listed in  the  contest.  This  sudden  cannonade  induced  Lionel 
to  steer  his  boat  between  the  islands ; for  the  castle,  and 
southern  batteries  of  the  town,  were  all  soon  united  in  pour- 
ing out  their  vengeance  on  the  laborers,  who  still  occupied 
the  heights  of  Dorchester.  As  the  little  vessel  glided  by  a 
tall  frigate,  Cecil  saw  the  boy,  who  had  been  her  first  escort 
in  the  wanderings  of  the  preceding  night,  standing  on  its 
taffrail,  rubbing  his  eyes  with  wonder,  and  staring  at  those 
hills,  whose  possession  he  had  prophesied  would  lead  to 
such  bloody  results.  In  short,  while  he  labored  at  the  oars, 
Lionel  witnessed  the  opening  scene  of  Breed’s  acted  anew, 
as  battery  after  battery,  and  ship  after  ship,  brought  their 
guns  to  bear  on  their  hardy  countrymen,  who  had  once 
more  hastened  a crisis  by  their  daring  enterprise.  Their 
boat  passed  unheeded,  in  the  excitement  and  bustle  of  the 
moment,  and  the  mists  of  the  morning  had  not  yet  dissi- 
pated, when  it  shot  by  the  wharves  of  Boston,  and,  turning 
into  the  narrow  entrance  of  the  town  Dock,  it  touched  the 
land,  near  the  warehouse,  where  it  had  so  often  been 
moored,  in  more  peaceable  times,  by  its  simple  master. 


CHAPTER  XXXIII. 


“ Now  cracks  a noble  heart  ; good-night, 
Sweet  prince.’ * 


Hamlet . 


LIONET  assisted  Cecil  to  ascend  the  difficult  water- 
stairs,  and,  still  attended  by  tlieir  aged  companion, 
they  soon  stood  on  the  drawbridge  that  connected 
the  piers  which  formed  the  mouth  of  the  narrow 

basin. 

“Here  we  again  part,”  he  said,  addressing  himself  to 
Ralph  ; ‘ £ at  another  opportunity  let  us  resume  your  mel- 
ancholy tale.” 

‘ ‘ None  so  fitting  as  the  present  : the  time,  the  place,  and 
the  state  of  the  town  are  all  favorable. 9 9 

Lionel  cast  his  eyes  around  on  the  dull  misery  which  per- 
vaded the  neglected  area.  A few  half-dressed  soldiers  and 
alarmed  townsmen  were  seen,  by  the  gray  light  of  the  morn- 
ing, rushing  across  the  square  towards  the  point  whence  the 
sounds  of  cannon  proceeded.  In  the  hurry  of  the  moment, 
their  own  arrival  was  not  noted. 

“ The  place — the  time  ! ” he  slowly  repeated. 

“ Ay,  both.  At  what  moment  can  the  friend  of  liberty 
pass  more  unheeded  amongst  these  miscreant  hirelings  than 
now,  when  fear  has  broken  their  slumbers  ! Yon  is  the 
place,”  he  said,  pointing  to  the  warehouse,  “ where  all  that 
I have  uttered  will  find  its  confirmation.” 

Major  Lincoln  communed  momentarily  with  his  thoughts. 
It  is  probable  that,  in  the  rapid  glances  of  his  mind,  he 
traced  the  mysterious  connection  between  the  abject  tenant 
of  the  adjacent  building  and  the  deceased  grandmother  of 


4*4 


SLtonel  ^Lincoln 


his  bride,  whose  active  agency  in  producing  the  calamities 
of  his  family  had  now  been  openly  acknowledged.  It  was 
soon  apparent  that  he  wavered  in  his  purpose  ; nor  was  he 
slow  to  declare  it. 

“ I will  attend  you,”  he  said  ; “ for  who  can  say  what  the 
hardihood  of  the  rebels  may  next  attempt ; and  future  oc- 
casions may  be  wanting.  I will  first  see  this  gentle  charge 
of  mine — ’ ’ 

“ Lincoln , I cannot — must  not  leave  you,”  interrupted 
Cecil,  with  earnest  fervor  : “ go,  listen,  and  learn  all ; surely 
there  can  be  nothing  that  a wife  may  not  know  ! ’ ’ 

Without  waiting  for  further  objection,  Ralph  made  a hur- 
ried gesture  of  compliance,  and,  turning,  he  led  the  way 
with  his  usual  swift  footsteps,  into  the  low  and  dark  tene- 
ment of  Abigail  Pray.  The  commotion  of  the  town  had 
not  yet  reached  this  despised  and  neglected  building,  which 
was  even  more  than  ordinarily  gloomy  and  still.  As  they 
picked  their  way,  however,  among  the  scattered  hemp, 
across  the  scene  of  the  preceding  night's  riot,  a few  stifled 
groans  proceeded  from  one  of  the  towers,  and  directed  them 
where  to  seek  its  abused  and  suffering  inmates.  On  open- 
ing the  door  of  this  little  apartment,  not  only  Lionel  and 
Cecil  paused,  but  even  the  immovable  old  man  appeared  to 
hesitate  in  wonder. 

The  heart-stricken  mother  of  the  simpleton  was  seated  on 
her  humble  stool,  busied  in  repairing  some  mean  and  worth- 
less garments,  which  had,  seemingly,  been  exposed  to  the 
wasteful  carelessness  of  her  reckless  child.  But  while  her 
fingers  performed  their  functions  with  mechanical  skill,  her 
contracted  brow,  working  muscles,  and  hard,  dry  eyes,  be- 
trayed the  force  of  the  mental  suffering  that  she  struggled  to 
conceal.  Job  still  lay  stretched  on  his  abject  pallet,  though 
his  breathing  was  louder  and  more  labored  than  when  we 
last  left  him,  while  his  sunken  features  indicated  the  slow, 
but  encroaching  advances  of  the  disease.  Polwarth  was 
seated  at  his  side,  holding  a pulse,  with  an  air  of  medical 
deliberation  ; and  attempting,  every  few  moments,  to  con- 
firm his  hopes  or  fears,  as  each  preponderated  in  turn,  by 
examining  the  glazed  eyes  of  the  subject  of  his  care. 


Xlonel  Xlncoln 


415 


Upon  a party  thus  occupied,  and  with  feelings  so  much 
engrossed,  even  the  sudden  entrance  of  the  intruders  was 
not  likely  to  make  any  very  sensible  impression.  The 
languid  and  unmeaning  look  of  Job  wandered  momentarily 
towards  the  door,  and  then  became  again  fixed  on  vacancy. 
A gleam  of  joy  shot  into  the  honest  visage  of  the  captain, 
when  he  first  beheld  Lionel,  accompanied  by  Cecil,  but  it 
was  instantly  chased  away  by  the  settled  meaning  of  care, 
which  had  gotten  the  mastery  of  his  usually  contented  ex- 
pression. The  greatest  alteration  was  produced  in  the 
aspect  of  the  woman,  who  bowed  her  head  to  her  bosom, 
with  a universal  shudder  of  her  frame,  as  Ralph  stood  un- 
expectedly before  her.  But  from  her,  also,  the  sudden 
emotion  passed  speedily  away,  her  hands  resuming  their 
humble  occupation,  with  the  same  mechanical  and  involun- 
tary movements  as  before. 

‘ ‘ Explain  this  scene  of  silent  sorrow  ! ’ ’ said  Lionel  to 
his  friend  ; ‘ ‘ how  came  you  in  this  haunt  of  wretchedness  ? 
and  who  has  harmed  the  lad  ? ’ ’ 

“ Your  question  conveys  its  own  answer,  Major  Lincoln, ” 
returned  Polwarth,  with  a manner  so  deliberate,  that  he 
refused  to  raise  his  steady  look  from  the  face  of  the  sufferer, 

‘ ‘ I am  here,  because  they  are  wretched  ! ’ ’ 

‘ ‘ The  motive  is  commendable ; but  what  aileth  the 
youth  ? 9 1 

“The  functions  of  nature  seem  suspended  by  some  re- 
markable calamity.  I found  him  suffering  from  inanition, 
and  notwithstanding  I applied  as  hearty  and  nutritious  a 
meal  as  the  strongest  man  in  the  garrison  could  require, 
the  symptoms,  as  you  see,  are  strangely  threatening  ! ” 

“ He  has  taken  the  contagion  of  the  town,  and  you  have 
fed  him,  when  his  fever  was  at  the  highest ! ” 

“ Is  small-pox  to  be  considered  more  than  a symptom, 
when  a man  has  the  damnable  disease  of  starvation  ! Go 
to — go  to,  Leo ; you  read  the  Latin  poets  so  much  at  the 
schools,  that  no  leisure  is  left  to  bestow  on  the  philosophy 
of  nature.  There  is  an  inward  monitor,  that  teaches  every 
child  the  remedy  for  hunger.” 

Lionel  felt  no  disposition  to  contend  with  his  friend  on  a 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


416 


point  where  the  other’s  opinions  were  dogmatical,  but,  turn- 
ing  to  the  woman,  he  said, — 

“ The  experience  of  a professional  nurse  should  have 
taught  you,  at  least,  more  care.” 

‘ ‘ Can  experience  steel  a mother  to  the  yearnings  of  her 
offspring  for  food?”  returned  the  forlorn  Abigail.  “No, 
no — the  ear  cannot  be  deaf  to  such  a moaning,  and  wisdom 
is  as  folly  when  the  heart  bleeds.” 

“Lincoln,  you  chide  unkindfy,”  said  Cecil ; “ let  us  rather 
attempt  to  avert  the  danger,  than  quarrel  with  its  cause.” 

“ It  is  too  late — it  is  too  late  ! ’ ’ returned  the  disconsolate 
mother;  “his  hours  are  already  numbered,  and  death  is 
on  him.  I can  now  only  pray,  that  God  will  lighten  his 
curse,  and  suffer  the  parting  spirit  to  know  his  Almighty 
power.” 

“Throw  aside  these  worthless  rags,”  said  Cecil,  gently 
attempting  to  take  the  clothes,  4 ‘ nor  fatigue  yourself  longer, 
at  such  a sacred  moment,  with  unnecessary  labor.” 

“ Young  lady,  you  little  know  a mother’s  longings  ; may 
you  never  know  her  sorrows  ! I have  been  doing  for  the 
child  these  seven-and-twenty  years ; rob  me  not  of  the 
pleasure,  now  that  so  little  remains  to  be  done.” 

“ Is  he,  then,  so  old  ! ” exclaimed  Lionel,  in  surprise. 

“ Old  as  he  is,  ’tis  young  for  a child  to  die  ! He  wants 
the  look  of  reason  ; Heaven,  in  its  mercy,  grant  that  he  may 
be  found  to  have  a face  of  innocence  ! ’ ’ 

Hitherto  Ralph  had  remained  where  he  first  stood,  as  if 
riveted  to  the  floor,  with  his  eyes  fastened  on  the  coun- 
tenance of  the  sufferer.  He  now  turned  to  Lionel,  and,  in 
a voice  rendered  even  plaintive  by  his  deep  emotion,  he 
asked  the  simple  question, - 
“Will  he  die?” 

“ I fear  it — that  look  is  not  easily  to  be  mistaken.” 

With  a step  so  light  that  it  was  inaudible,  the  old  man 
moved  to  the  bed,  and  seated  himself  on  the  side  opposite  to 
Polwarth.  Without  regarding  the  wondering  look  of  the 
captain,  he  waved  his  hand  on  high,  as  if  to  exhort  to  silence, 
and  then  gazing  on  the  features  of  the  sick,  with  melancholy 
interest,  he  said, — 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


417 


“ Here,  then,  is  death  again  ! None  are  so  young  as  to 
be  unheeded ; ’t  is  only  the  old  that  cannot  die.  Tell  me, 
Job,  what  seest  thou  in  the  visions  of  thy  mind, — the  un- 
known places  of  the  damned,  or  the  brightness  of  such  as 
stand  in  presence  of  their  God  ? ’ ’ 

At  the  well-known  sound  of  his  voice,  the  glazed  eye  of 
the  simpleton  lighted  with  a ray  of  reason,  and  was  turned 
towards  the  speaker,  once  more,  teeming  with  a look  of 
meek  assurance.  The  rattling  in  his  throat,  for  a moment, 
increased,  and  then  ceased  entirely ; when  a voice  so  deep, 
that  it  appeared  to  issue  from  the  depths  of  his  chest,  was 
heard,  saying, — 

“ The  Lord  won’t  harm  him  who  never  harmed  the  crea- 
tures of  the  Tord  ! ’ ’ 

“ Emperors  and  kings,  yea,  the  great  of  the  earth,  might 
envy  thee  thy  lot,  thou  unknown  child  of  wretchedness  ! ’ ’ 
returned  Ralph.  “ Not  yet  thirty  years  of  probation,  and 
already  thou  throwest  aside  the  clay  ! Tike  thee  did  I 
grow  to  manhood,  and  learn  how  hard  it  is  to  live ; but 
like  thee  I cannot  die  ! Tell  me,  boy,  dost  thou  enjoy  the 
freedom  of  the  .spirit,  or  hast  thou  still  pain  and  pleasure  in 
the  flesh  ? Dost  see  beyond  the  tomb,  and  trace  thy  route 
through  the  pathless  air,  or  is  all  yet  hid  in  the  darkness 
of  the  grave  ? ’ ’ 

“Job  is  going  where  the  Eord  has  hid  his  reason,”  an- 
swered the  same  hollow  voice  as  before  : “ his  prayers  won’t 
be  foolish  any  longer.  ’ ’ 

“Pray,  then,  for  one  aged  and  forlorn;  who  has  borne 
the  burden  of  life  till  Death  has  forgotten  him,  and  who 
wearies  of  the  things  of  earth,  where  all  is  treachery  and 
sin.  But  stay  ; depart  not  till  thy  spirit  can  bear  the  signs 
of  repentance  from  yon  sinful  woman  into  the  regions  of 
day.” 

Abigail  groaned  aloud  ; her  hands  again  refused  their  oc- 
cupation, and  her  head  once  more  sunk  on  her  bosom  in  ab- 
ject misery.  Froui  this  posture  of  self-abasement  and  grief, 
the  woman  raised  herself  to  her  feet,  and,  putting  aside  the 
careless  tresses  of  dark  hair,  which,  though  here  and  there 
streaked  with  gray,  retained  much  of  their  youthful  gloss, 

27 


418 


^Lionel  Xmcoltt 


she  looked  about  her  with  a face  so  haggard,  and  eyes  so 
full  of  meaning,  that  the  common  attention  was  instantly 
attracted  to  her  movements. 

“The  time  has  come,  and  neither  fear  nor  shame  shall 
longer  tie  my  tongue, 5 ’ she  said.  ‘ ‘ The  hand  of  Providence  is 
too  manifest  in  this  assemblage  around  the  death-bed  of  that 
boy,  to  be  unheeded.  Major  Lincoln,  in  that  stricken  and 
helpless  child,  you  see  one  who  shares  your  blood,  though 
he  has  ever  been  a stranger  to  your  happiness.  Job  is  your 
brother  ! ” 

“ Grief  has  maddened  her  ! ” exclaimed  the  anxious  Cecil ; 
“ she  knows  not  what  she  utters.” 

“ ’Tis  true  ! ” said  the  calm  tones  of  Ralph. 

“Listen,”  continued  Abigail;  “a  terrible  witness,  sent 
hither  by  Heaven,  speaks  to  attest  I tell  no  lie.  The  secret 
of  my  transgression  is  known  to  him,  when  I had  thought 
it  buried  in  the  affection  of  one  only  who  owed  me  every- 
thing.” 

“Woman  ! ” said  Lionel,  “ in  attempting  to  deceive  me, 
you  deceive  yourself.  Though  a voice  from  Heaven  should 
declare  the  truth  of  thy  damnable  tale,  still  would  I deny 
that  foul  object  being  the  child  of  my  beauteous  mother.” 

“Foul  and  wretched  as  you  see  him,  he  is  the  offspring 
of  one  not  less  fair,  though  far  less  fortunate,  than  thy  own 
boasted  parent,  proud  child  of  prosperity  ! Call  on  Heaven 
as  thou  wilt,  with  that  blasphemous  tongue,'  he  is  no  less 
thy  brother,  and  the  elder  born.” 

“’Tis  true — ’tis  true — ’tis  most  solemnly  a truth!” 
repeated  the  unmoved  and  aged  stranger. 

“ It  cannot  be  ! ” cried  Cecil.  “ Lincoln,  credit  them  not ; 
they  contradict  themselves.” 

4 ‘ Out  of  thy  own  mouth  will  I find  reasons  to  convince 
you,”  said  Abigail.  “Hast  thou  not  owned  the  influence 
of  the  son  at  the  altar  ? Why  should  one  vain,  ignorant, 
and  young  as  I was,  be  insensible  to  the  seductions  of  the 
father?  ” 

“The  child  is,  then,  thine!”  exclaimed  Lionel,  once 
more  breathing  with  freedom.  “Proceed  with  thy  tale; 
you  confide  it  to  friends.” 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


419 


“ Yes — yes,”  cried  Abigail,  clasping  her  hands,  and  speak- 
ing with  bitter  emphasis,  ‘ ‘ you  have  all  the  consolation  of 
proving  the  difference  between  the  guilt  of  woman  and  that 
of  man  ! Major  Lincoln,  accursed  and  polluted  as  you  see 
me,  thy  own  mother  was  not  more  innocent  nor  fair,  when 
my  youthful  beauty  caught  thy  father’s  eye.  He  was  great 
and  powerful,  and  I unknown  and  frail ; yon  miserable 
proof  of  our  transgression  did  not  appear,  until  he  had  met 
your  happier  mother.  ’ ’ 

4 ‘ Can  this  be  so  ? ” 

‘ ‘ The  holy  Gospels  are  not  more  true ! ’ ’ murmured 
Ralph. 

‘ ‘ And  my  father  ! did  he — could  he  desert  thee  in  thy 
need  ?” 

‘ £ Shame  came  when  virtue  and  pride  had  been  long  for- 
gotten. I was  a dependant  of  his  own  proud  race,  and 
opportunities  were  not  wanting  to  mark  his  wandering 
looks  and  growing  love  for  the  chaste  Priscilla.  Pie  never 
knew  my  state.  While  I was  stricken  to  the  earth  by  the 
fruits  of  guilt,  he  proved  how  easy  it  is  for  us  to  forget,  in 
the  days  of  prosperity,  the  companions  of  our  shame.  At 
length,  you  were  born ; and,  unknown  to  him,  I received 
his  new-born  heir  from  the  hands  of  his  jealous  aunt. 
What  accursed  thoughts  beset  me  at  that  bitter  moment  ! 
But,  praised  be  God  in  heaven,  they  passed  away,  and  I 
was  spared  the  sin  of  murder  ! ’ ’ 

“ Murder?” 

“ Even  of  murder.  You  know  not  the  desperate  thoughts 
the  wretched  harbor  for  relief!  But  opportunity  was  not 
long  wanting,  and  I enjoyed  the  momentary,  hellish  pleas- 
ure of  revenge.  Your  father  went  in  quest  of  his  rights, 
and  disease  attacked  his  beloved  wife.  Yes,  foul  and  un- 
seemly as  is  my  wretched  child,  the  beauty  of  thy  mother 
was  changed  to  a look  still  more  hideous  ! Such  as  Job 
now  seems,  was  the  injured  woman  on  her  death-bed.  I 
feel  all  thy  justice,  Lord  of  power,  and  bow  before  thy 
will ! ’ ’ 

“ Injured  woman  ! ” repeated  Lionel,  “ say  on,  and  I will 
bless  thee  ! ’ ’ 


420 


^Lionel  Xincoln 


Abigail  gave  a groan,  so  deep  and  hollow,  that,  for  a 
moment,  the  listeners  believed  it  was  the  parting  struggle 
of  the  spirit  of  her  son,  and  she  sunk  helplessly  into  her 
seat,  again  concealing  her  features  in  her  dress. 

'‘Injured  woman ! n slowly  repeated  Ralph,  with  the 
most  taunting  contempt  in  his  accents,  ‘ ‘ what  punishment 
does  not  a wanton  merit  ? ’ ’ 

“ Ay,  injured  ! " cried  the  awakened  son;  “my  life  on 
it,  thy  tale  at  least,  is  false.' * 

The  old  man  was  silent,  but  his  lips  moved  rapidly,  as  if 
he  muttered  an  incredulous  reply  to  himself,  while  a scorn- 
ful smile  cast  its  bright  and  peculiar  meaning  across  the 
wasted  lineaments  of  his  face. 

“I  know  not  what  you  may  have  heard  from  others," 
continued  Abigail,  speaking  so  low  that  her  words  were 
nearly  lost  in  the  difficult  and  measured,  breathing  of  Job, 
“ but  I call  Heaven  to  witness,  that  }^ou  now  shall  hear  no 
lie.  The  laws  of  the  province  commanded  that  the  victims 
of  the  foul  distemper  should  be  kept  apart,  and  your  mother 
was  placed  at  the  mercy  of  myself,  and  one  other,  wrho  loved 
her  still  less  than  I." 

“Just  Providence  ! you  did  no  violence?  " 

“The  disease  spared  us  such  a crime.  She  died  in  her 
new  deformity,  while  I remained  a looker-on,  if  not  in  the 
beauty  of  my  innocence,  still  free  from  the  withering  touch 
of  scorn  and  want.  Yes,  I found  a sinful  but  flattering 
consolation  in  that  thought  ! Vain,  wreak,  and  foolish  as  I 
had  been,  never  did  I regard  my  own  fresh  beauty  with  half 
the  inward  pleasure  that  I looked  upon  the  foulness  of  my 
rival.  Your  aunt,  too — she  was  not  without  the  instigations 
of  the  worker  of  mischief." 

“Speak  only  of  my  mother,"  interrupted  the  impatient 
Tionel  ; “of  my  aunt  I already  know  the  whole." 

“ Unmoved  and  calculating  as  she  was,  how  little  did  she 
understand  good  from  evil  ! She  even  thought  to  crack  the 
heart-strings,  and  render  whole,  by  her  w^eak  inventions, 
that  which  the  powder  of  God  could  only  create.  The  gentle 
spirit  of  thy  mother  had  hardly  departed,  before  a vile  plot 
was  hatched  to  destroy  the  purity  of  her  fame.  Blind  fools 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


421 


that  we  were  ! She  thought  to  lead  by  her  soothing  arts, 
aided  by  his  wounded  affections,  the  husband  to  the  feet  of 
her  own  daughter,  the  innocent  mother  of  her  who  stands 
beside  thee ; and  I was  so  vain  as  to  hope,  that,  in  time, 
justice  and  my  boy  might  plead  with  the  father  and  seducer, 
and  raise  me  to  the  envied  station  of  her  whom  I hated.” 

“ And  this  foul  calumny  you  repeated,  with  all  its  basest 
coloring,  to  my  abused  father  ? ’ ’ 

“ We  did — we  did  ; yes,  God,  he  knows  we  did  ! and  when 
he  hesitated  to  believe,  I took  the  holy  evangelists  as  wit- 
nesses of  my  truth  ! ” 

“ And  he,”  said  Lionel,  nearly  choked  by  his  emotions,— 
“ he  believed  it  ! ” 

“When  he  heard  the  solemn  oath  of  one,  whose  whole 
guilt,  he  thought,  lay  in  her  weakness  to  himself,  he  did. 
As  we  listened  to  his  terrible  denunciations,  and  saw  the 
frown  which  darkened  his  manly  beauty,  we  both  thought 
we  had  succeeded.  But  how  little  did  we  know  the  difference 
between  rooted  passion  and  passing  inclination  ! The  heart 
we  thought  to  alienate  from  its  dead  partner,  we  destroyed ; 
and  the  reason  we  conspired  to  deceive,  was  maddened  ! ’ ’ 
When  her  voice  ceased,  so  profound  a silence  reigned  in 
the  place,  that  the  roar  of  the  distant  cannonade  sounded 
close  at  hand,  and  even  the  low  murmurs  of  the  excited  town 
swept  by  like  the  whisperings  of  the  wind.  Job  suddenly 
ceased  to  breathe,  as  though  his  spirit  had  only  lingered  to 
hear  the  confession  of  his  mother  ; and  Polwarth  dropped  the 
arm  of  the  dead  simpleton,  unconscious  of  the  interest  he  had 
so  lately  taken  in  his  fate.  In  the  midst  of  this  deathlike 
stillness,  the  old  man  stole  from  the  side  of  the  body,  and 
stood  before  the  self-condemned  Abigail,  whose  form  was 
writhing  under  her  mental  anguish.  Crouching  more  like  a 
tiger  than  a man,  he  sprang  upon  her,  with  a cry  so  sudden, 
so  wild,  and  so  horrid,  that  it  caused  all  within  its  hearing 
to  shudder  with  instant  dread. 

“ Beldame  ! ” he  shouted,  “I  have  thee  now!  Bring 
hither  the  book  ! the  blessed,  holy  word  of  God  ! Let  her 
swear,  let  her  swear  ! Let  her  damn  her  perjured  soul,  in 
impious  oaths ! ” 


422 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


“ Monster  ! release  the  woman  ! ” cried  Lionel,  advancing 
to  the  assistance  of  the  struggling  penitent;  “thou  too, 
hoary-headed  wretch,  hast  deceived  me  ! ’ ’ 

“Lincoln!  Lincoln  !”  shrieked  Cecil,  “stay  that  un- 
natural hand  ! you  raise  it  on  thy  father  ! ’ ’ 

Lionel  staggered  back  to  the  wall,  where  he  stood  motion- 
less, and  gasping  for  breath.  Left  to  work  his  own  frantic 
will,  the  maniac  would  speedily  have  terminated  the  sorrows 
of  the  wretched  woman,  had  not  the  door  been  burst  open 
with  a crash,  and  the  stranger,  who  was  left,  by  the  cunning 
of  the  madman,  in  the  custody  of  the  Americans,  rushed  to 
the  rescue. 

‘ ‘ I know  your  yell,  my  gentle  baronet  ! ’ ’ cried  the  aroused 
keeper,  for  such  in  truth  he  was,  ‘ ‘ and  I have  a mark  for 
your  malice,  which  would  have  gladly  had  me  hung  ! But 
I have  not  followed  you  from  kingdom  to  kingdom — from 
Europe  to  America — to  be  cheated  by  a lunatic  ! * ’ 

It  was  apparent,  by  the  lowering  look  of  the  fellow,  how 
deeply  he  resented  the  danger  he  had  just  escaped,  as  he 
sprang  forward  to  seize  his  prisoner.  Ralph  abandoned  his 
hold  the  instant  this  hated  object  appeared,  and  he  darted 
upon  the  breast  of  the  other  with  the  undaunted  fury  that 
a lion,  at  bay,  would  turn  upon  its  foe.  The  struggle  was 
fierce  and  obstinate.  Hoarse  oaths,  and  the  most  savage 
execrations,  burst  from  the  incensed  keeper,  and  were 
blended  with  the  wildest  ravings  of  madness  from  Ralph. 
The  excited  powers  of  the  maniac  at  length  prevailed,  and 
his  antagonist  fell  under  their  irresistible  impulse.  Quicker 
than  thought,  Ralph  was  seen  hovering  on  the  chest  of  his 
victim,  while  he  grasped  his  throat  with  fingers  of  iron. 

“Vengeance  is  holy  ! ” cried  the  maniac,  bursting  into  a 
shout  of  horrid  laughter,  at  his  triumph,  and  shaking  his 
gray  locks  till  they  flowed  in  wild  confusion  around  his 
glowing  eyeballs  ; “ Urim  and  Thummim  are  the  words  of 
glory  ! Liberty  is  the  shout ! Die,  damned  dog  ! die  like 
the  fiends  in  darkness,  and  leave  freedom  to  the  air  ! ’ * 

By  a mighty  effort,  the  gasping  man  released  his  throat  a 
little  from  the  gripe  that  nearly  throttled  him,  and  cried,  with 
difficulty, — 


Xionel  Lincoln 


423 


“ For  the  love  of  heavenly  justice,  come  to  my  aid  ! — will 
you  see  a man  thus  murdered  ? ” 

But  he  addressed  himself  to  the  sympathies  of  the  listeners 
in  vain.  The  females  had  hid  their  faces,  in  natural  hor- 
ror; the  maimed  Polwarth  was  yet  without  his  artificial 
limb  ; and  Lionel  still  looked  upon  the  savage  fray  with  a 
vacant  eye.  At  this  moment  of  despair,  the  hand  of  the 
keeper,  was  seen  plunging  with  violence  into  the  side  of 
Ralph  who  sprang  upon  his  feet  at  the  third  blow,  laughing 
immoderately,  but  with  sounds  so  wild  and  deep,  that  they 
seemed  to  shake  his  inmost  soul.  His  antagonist  profited 
by  the  occasion,  and  darted  from  the  room  with  the  head- 
long precipitation  of  guilt. 

The  countenance  of  the  maniac,  as  he  now  stood,  strug- 
gling between  life  and  death,  changed  with  each  fleeting  im- 
pulse. The  blood  flowed  freely  from  the  wounds  in  his  side, 
and,  as  the  fatal  tide  ebbed  away,  a ray  of  passing  reason 
lighted  his  pallid  and  ghastly  features.  His  inward  laugh 
entirely  ceased.  The  glaring  eyeballs  became  stationary  ; 
and  his  look,  gradually  softening,  settled  on  the  appalled 
pair  who  took  the  deepest  interest  in  his  welfare.  A calm 
and  decent  expression  possessed  those  lineaments  which  had 
just  exhibited  the  deepest  marks  of  the  wrath  of  God.  His 
lips  moved  in  a vain  effort  to  speak  ; and,  stretching  forth 
his  arms  in  the  attitude  of  benediction,  like  the  mysterious 
shadow  of  the  chapel,  he  fell  backward  on  the  body  of  the 
lifeless  and  long-neglected  Job,  himself  perfectly  dead. 


CHAPTER  XXXIV. 


“I  saw  an  aged  man  upon  his  bier, 

His  hair  was  thin  and  white,  and  on  his  brow 
A record  of  the  cares  of  many  a year ; 

Cares  that  were  ended  and  forgotten  now, 

And  there  was  sadness  round,  and  faces  bowed, 

And  woman’s  tears  fell  fast,  and  children  wailed  aloud.” 

Bryant. 

AS  the  day  advanced,  the  garrison  of  Boston  was  put 
in  motion.  The  same  bustle,  the  same  activity, 
the  same  gallant  bearing  in  some,  and  dread 
reluctance  in  others  were  exhibited,  as  on  the 
morning  of  the  fight  of  the  preceding  summer.  The  haughty 
temper  of  the  royal  commander  could  ill  brook  the  bold 
enterprise  of  the  colonists ; and,  at  an  early  hour,  orders 
were  issued  to  prepare  to  dislodge  them.  Every  gun  that 
could  be  brought  to  bear  upon  the  hills,  was  employed  to 
molest  the  Americans,  who  calmly  continued  their  labors, 
while  shot  were  whistling  around  them  on  every  side. 
Towards  evening  a large  force  was  embarked,  and  conveyed 
to  the  castle.  Washington  appeared  on  the  heights,  in 
person,  and  every  military  evidence  of  the  intention  of  a 
resolute  attack  on  one  part,  and  of  a stout  resistance  on  the 
other  became  apparent. 

But  the  fatal  experience  of  Breed’s  had  taught  a lesson 
that  was  still  remembered.  The  same  leaders  were  to 
be  the  principal  actors  in  the  coming  scene,  and  it  was  nec- 
essary to  use  the  remnants  of  many  of  the  very  regiments 
which  had  bled  so  freely  on  the  former  occasion.  The  half- 
trained  husbandmen  of  the  colonies  were  no  longer  de- 
spised ; and  the  bold  operations  of  the  past  winter  had 

424 


Xlonel  Xincoln 


425 


taught  the  English  generals  that,  as  subordination  increased 
among  their  foes,  their  movements  were  conducted  with  a 
more  vigorous  direction  of  their  numbers.  The  day  was 
accordingly  wasted  in  preparations.  Thousands  of  men 
slept  on  their  arms  that  night,  in  either  army,  in  the  expec- 
tation of  rising,  on  the  following  morning,  to  be  led  to  the 
field  of  slaughter. 

It  is  not  improbable,  from  the  tardiness  of  their  move- 
ments, that  a large  majority  of  the  royal  forces  did  not 
regret  the  providential  interposition,  which  certainly  saved 
them  torrents  of  blood,  and,  not  improbably,  the  ignominy 
of  a defeat.  One  of  the  sudden  tempests  of  the  climate 
arose  in  the  darkness,  driving  before  it  men  and  beasts,  to 
seek  protection,  in  their  imbecility,  from  the  more  powerful 
warring  of  the  elements.  The  golden  moments  were  lost  ; 
and  after  enduring  so  many  privations,  and  expending  so 
many  lives  in  vain,  Howe  sullenly  commenced  his  arrange- 
ments to  abandon  a town,  on  which  the  English  ministry 
had,  for  years,  lavished  their  indignation,  with  all  the  acri- 
mony, and,  as  it  now  seemed,  with  the  impotency  of  a blind 
revenge. 

To  carry  into  effect  this  sudden  and  necessary  determi- 
nation, was  not  the  work  of  an  hour.  As  it  was  the  desire 
of  the  Americans,  however,  to  receive  their  town  back 
again  as  little  injured  as  possible,  they  forbore  to  push  the 
advantage  they  possessed,  by  occupying  those  heights, 
which,  in  a great  measure,  commanded  the  anchorage,  as 
well  as  a new  and  vulnerable  face  of  the  defences  of  the 
king’s  army.  While  the  semblance  of  hostilities  was  main- 
tained by  an  irregular  and  impotent  cannonade,  conducted 
with  so  little  spirit  as  to  wear  the  appearance  of  being  in- 
tended only  to  amuse,  one  side  was  diligently  occupied  in 
preparing  to  depart,  and  the  other  was  passively  awaiting 
the  moment  when  they  might  peaceably  repossess  their  own. 
It  is  unnecessary  to  remind  the  reader  that  the  entire  com- 
mand of  the  sea,  by  the  British,  would  have  rendered  any 
serious  attempt  to  arrest  their  movements  perfectly  futile. 

In  this  manner  a week  was  passed  after  the  tempest  had 
abated — the  place  exhibiting,  throughout  this  period,  all 


426 


Xionel  Xincolrt 


the  hurry  and  bustle,  the  joy  and  distress,  that  such  an  un- 
looked-for event  was  likely  to  create. 

Towards  the  close  of  one  of  those  busy  and  stirring  days, 
a short  funeral  train  was  seen  issuing  from  a building, 
which  had  long  been  known  as  the  residence  of  one  of 
the  proudest  families  in  the  province.  Above  the  outer 
door  of  the  mansion  was  suspended  a gloomy  hatchment, 
charged  with  the  “ courant  ” deer  of  Lincoln,  encircled  by 
the  usual  mementoes  of  mortality,  and  bearing  the  rare 
symbol  of  the  “ bloody  hand.”  This  emblem  of  heraldic 
grief,  which  was  never  adopted  in  the  provinces,  except  at 
the  death  of  one  of  high  importance,  a custom  that  has 
long  since  disappeared  with  the  usages  of  the  monarchy, 
had  caught  the  e}^es  of  a few  idle  boys,  who  alone  were 
sufficiently  unoccupied,  at  that  pressing  moment,  to  note  its 
exhibition.  With  the  addition  of  these  truant  urchins,  the 
melancholy  procession  took  its  way  towards  the  neighbor- 
ing churchyard  of  the  King's  Chapel. 

The  large  bier  was  covered  by  a pall  so  ample,  that  it 
swept  the  stones  of  the  threshold,  while  entering  into  the 
body  of  the  church.  Here  it  was  met  by  the  divine  we 
have  had  occasion  to  mention  more  than  once,  who  gazed, 
with  a look  of  strange  interest,  at  the  solitary  and  youthful 
mourner  that  followed  in  his  dark  weeds.  The  ceremony, 
however,  proceeded  with  the  usual  solemnity,  and  the  attend- 
ants slowly  moved  deeper  into  the  sacred  edifice.  Next  to 
the  young  man  came  the  well-known  persons  of  the  British 
commander-in-chief,  and  of  his  quick-witted  and  favorite 
lieutenant.  Between  them  walked  an  officer  of  inferior 
rank,  who,  notwithstanding  his  maimed  condition,  had  been 
able,  by  the  deliberation  of  the  march,  to  beguile  the  ears 
of  his  companions,  to  the  very  moment  of  meeting  the  clergy- 
man, with  some  tale  of  no  little  interest,  and  great  apparent 
mystery.  The  remainder  of  the  train,  which  consisted  only 
of  the  family  of  the  two  generals  and  a few  menials,  came  last, 
if  we  except  the  idlers,  who  stole  curiously  in  their  footsteps. 

When  the  service  was  ended,  the  same  private  commu- 
nication was  resumed  between  the  two  chieftains  and  their 
companion,  and  continued  until  they  arrived  at  the  open 


%ionc l Xtncoln 


427 


vault,  in  a distant  corner  of  the  inclosure.  Here  the  low 
conversation  ended  ; and  the  eye  of  Howe,  which  had  hith- 
erto been  riveted  in  deep  attention  on  the  speaker,  began 
to  wander  in  the  direction  of  the  dangerous  hills  occupied 
by  his  enemies.  The  interruption  seemed  to  have  broken 
the  charm  of  the  secret  conversation  ; and  the  anxious 
countenances  of  both  the  leaders  betrayed  how  soon  their 
thoughts  had  wandered  from  a tale  of  great  private  distress, 
to  their  own  heavier  cares  and  duties. 

The  bier  was  placed  before  the  opening,  and  the  assistants 
of  the  sexton  advanced  to  perform  their  office.  When  the 
pall  was  removed,  to  the  evident  amazement  of  most  of  the 
spectators,  two  coffins  were  exposed  to  view.  One  was 
clothed  in  black  velvet,  studded  with  silver  nails,  and  orna- 
mented after  the  richest  fashions  of  human  pride,  while  the 
other  lay  in  the  simple  nakedness  of  the  clouded  wood.  On 
the  breast  of  the  first  rose  a heavy  silver  plate,  bearing  a long 
inscription,  and  decorated  with  the  usual  devices  of  heraldry  ; 
and  on  the  latter  were  simply  carved  on  the  lid  the  two  ini- 
tial letters  J.  P. 

The  impatient  looks  of  the  English  generals  intimated  to 
Dr.  Titurgy  the  value  of  every  moment,  and  in  less  time 
than  we  consume  in  relating  it,  the  bodies  of  the  high- 
descended  man  of  wealth,  and  of  his  nameless  companion, 
were  lowered  into  the  vault,  and  left  to  decay,  in  silent 
contact  with  that  of  the  woman  who,  in  life,  had  been  so 
severe  a scourge  to  both.  After  a hesitation  of  a single 
moment,  in  deference  to  the  young  mourner,  the  gentlemen 
present,  perceiving  that  he  manifested  a wish  to  remain, 
quitted  the  place  in  a body,  with  the  exception  of  the 
maimed  officer,  already  mentioned,  whom  the  reader  has  at 
once  recognized  to  be  Polwarth.  When  the  men  had  re- 
placed the  stone  above  the  mouth  of  the  vault,  securing  it  by 
a stout  bar  of  iron,  and  a heavy  lock,  they  delivered  the  key  to 
the  principal  actor  in  the  scene.  He  received  it  in  silence,  and, 
dropping  gold  into  their  hands,  motioned  to  them  to  depart. 

In  another  instant,  a careless  observer  would  have 
thought  that  Eionel  and  his  friend  were  the  only  living 
possessors  of  the  churchyard.  But  under  the  adjoining 


428 


%ionc l !JLfncoIn 


wall,  partly  hid  from  observation  by  the  numerous  head- 
stones, was  the  form  of  a woman,  bowed  to  the  earth,  while 
her  figure  was  concealed  by  the  cloak  she  had  gathered 
shapelessly  about  her.  As  soon  as  the  gentlemen  perceived 
they  were  alone,  they  slowly  advanced  to  the  side  of  this 
desolate  being. 

Their  approaching  footsteps  were  not  unheeded,  though, 
instead  of  facing  those  who  so  evidently  wished  to  address 
her,  she  turned  to  the  wall,  and  began  to  trace,  with  un- 
conscious fingers,  the  letters  of  a tablet  in  slate,  which  was 
let  into  the  brick- work,  to  mark  the  position  of  the  tomb  of 
the  Lechmeres. 

“We  can  do  no  more,”  said  the  young  mourner;  “all 
now  rests  with  a mightier  hand  than  any  of  earth.” 

The  squalid  limb,  that  was  thrust  from  beneath  the  red 
garment,  trembled,  but  it  still  continued  its  unmeaning  em- 
ployment. 

“Sir  Lionel  Lincoln  speaks  to  you,”  said  Polwarth,  on 
whose  arm  the  youthful  baronet  leaned. 

“Who?”  shrieked  Abigail  Pray,  casting  aside  her 
covering,  and  baring  those  sunken  features,  on  which 
misery  had  made  terrible  additional  inroads  within  a few 
days : “I  had  forgotten — I had  forgotten  ! the  son  suc- 
ceeds the  father ; but  the  mother  must  follow  her  child  to 
the  grave  ! ” 

“ He  is  honorably  interred  with  those  of  his  blood,  and  by 
the  side  of  one  who  loved  his  simple  integrity.  ’ ’ 

“Yes,  he  is  better  lodged  in  death  than  he  was  in  life  ! 
Thank  God  ! he  can  never  know  cold  nor  hunger  more.” 

“You  will  find  that  I have  made  a provision  for  your 
future  comfort ; and  I trust  that  the  close  of  your  life  will 
be  happier  than  its  prime.” 

“ I am  alone,”  said  the  woman  hoarsely.  “The  old  will 
avoid  me,  and  the  young  will  look  upon  me  in  scorn  ! 
Perjury  and  revenge  lie  heavy  on  my  soul ! ” 

The  young  baronet  was  silent,  but  Polwarth  assumed  the 
right  to  reply, — 

“ I will  not  pretend  to  assert,”  said  the  worthy  captain, 
“that  these  are  not  both  wicked  companions;  but  I have 


ftfonel  Xincoln 


429 


no  doubt  you  will  find,  somewhere  in  the  Bible,  a suitable 
consolation  for  each  particular  offence.  Let  me  recommend 
to  you  a hearty  diet,  and  I ’ll  answer  for  an  easy  conscience. 
I never  knew  the  prescription  fail.  Look  about  you  in  the 
world — does  jrour  well-fed  villain  feel  remorse?  No;  it’s 
only  when  his  stomach  is  empty,  that  he  begins  to  think  of 
his  errors  ! I would  also  suggest  the  expediency  of  com- 
mencing soon,  with  something  substantial,  as  you  show 
altogether  too  much  bone  at  present,  for  a thriving  condi- 
tion. I would  not  wish  to  say  anything  distressing,  but  we 
both  of  us  may  remember  a case,  where  the  nourishment 
came  too  late.” 

4 4 Yes,  yes,  it  came  too  late  ! ” murmured  the  conscience- 
stricken  woman ; “ all  comes  too  late  ! even  the  penitence, 
I fear!” 

“Say  not  so,”  observed  Lionel;  “you  do  outrage  to  the 
promises  of  one  who  never  spoke  false  ! ’ ’ 

Abigail  stole  a fearful  glance  at  him,  which  expressed  all 
the  secret  terror  of  her  soul,  as  she  half  whispered, — 

“ Who  witnessed  the  end  of  Madam  Lechmere?  did  her 
spirit  pass  in  peace?  ” 

Sir  Lionel  again  remained  profoundly  silent. 

“I  thought  it,”  she  continued.  “ ’Tis  not  a sin  to  be 
forgotten  on  a death-bed  ! To  plot  evil,  and  call  on  God 
aloud,  to  look  upon  it ! Ay  ! and  to  madden  a brain,  and 
strip  a soul  like  his  to  nakedness  ! Go,”  she  added,  beck- 
oning them  away  with  earnestness:  “ye  are  young  and 

happy ; why  should  ye  linger  near  the  grave  ! Leave  me, 
that  I may  pray  among  the  tombs  ! If  anything  can  smooth 
the  bitter  moment  it  is  prayer.” 

Lionel  dropped  the  key  he  held  in  his  hand  at  her  feet, 
and  said,  before  he  left  her, — 

“Yon  vault  is  closed  forever,  unless,  at  your  request,  it 
should  be  opened,  at  some  future  time,  to  place  you  by  the 
side  of  your  son.  The  children  of  those  who  built  it  are 
already  gathered  there  with  the  exception  of  two,  who  go 
to  the  other  hemisphere  to  leave  their  bones.  Take  it,  and 
may  Heaven  forgive  you,  as  I do.” 

He  let  fall  a heavy  purse  by  the  side  of  the  key,  and 


4$o 


Xionel  ^Lincoln 


without  uttering  more,  he  again  took  the  arm  of  Polwarth, 
and  together  they  left  the  place. 

As  they  turned  through  the  gateway  into  the  street,  each 
stole  a glance  at  the  distant  woman.  She  had  risen  to  her 
knees  ; her  hands  had  grasped  a headstone,  and  her  face 
was  bowed  nearly  to  the  earth,  while,  by  the  writhing  of  her 
form,  and  the  humility  of  her  attitude,  it  was  apparent  that 
her  spirit  struggled  powerfully  with  the  Lord  for  mercy. 

Three  days  afterwards,  the  Americans  entered,  trium- 
phantly, on  the  retiring  footsteps  of  the  royal  army.  The 
first  among  them  who  hastened  to  visit  the  graves  of  their 
fathers,  found  the  body  of  a woman,  who  had  seemingly 
died  under  the  severity  of  the  season.  She  had  unlocked 
the  vault,  in  a vain  effort  to  reach  her  child,  and  there  her 
strength  had  failed  her.  Her  limbs  were  decently  stretched 
on  the  faded  grass,  while  her  features  were  composed,  ex- 
hibiting in  death  the  bland  traces  of  that  remarkable  beauty 
which  had  distinguished  and  betrayed  her  youth.  The  gold 
still  lay  neglected,  where  it  had  fallen. 

The  amazed  townsmen  avoided  this  spectacle  with  horror, 
rushing  into  other  places  to  gaze  at  the  changes  and  the 
destruction  of  their  beloved  birthplace.  But  a follower  of 
the  royal  army,  who  had  lingered  to  plunder,  and  who  had 
witnessed  the  interview  between  the  officers  and  Abigail, 
shortly  succeeded  them.  He  lifted  the  flag,  and,  lowering 
the  body,  closed  the  vault ; then  hurling  away  the  key,  he 
seized  the  money,  and  departed. 

The  slate  has  long  since  mouldered  from  the  wall ; the 
sod  has  covered  the  stone,  and  few  are  left  who  can  designate 
the  spot  where  the  proud  families  of  Lechmere  and  Lincoln 
were  wont  to  inter  their  dead. 

So  Lionel  and  Polwarth  proceeded,  in  the  deepest  silence, 
to  the  Long  Wharf,  where  a boat  received  them.  They 
were  rowed  to  the  much-admired  frigate,  that  was  standing 
ofif-and-on,  under  easy  sail,  waiting  their  arrival.  On  her 
deck  they  met  Agnes  Danfortli,  with  her  eyes  softened  by 
tears,  though  a rich  flush  mantled  on  her  cheeks,  at  witness- 
ing the  compelled  departure  of  those  invaders  she  had  never 
loved. 


^Lionel  ^Lincoln 


431 


* ‘ I have  only  remained  to  give  you  a parting  kiss,  cousin 
Lionel,”  said  the  frank  girl,  affectionately  saluting  him, 
“and  now  shall  take  my  leave,  without  repeating  those 
wishes  that  you  know  are  so  often  conveyed  in  my  prayers.  ’ ’ 

“You  will,  then,  leave  us?”  said  the  young  baronet, 
smiling  for  the  first  time  in  many  a day.  “You  know  that 
this  cruelty — ’ ’ 

He  was  interrupted  by  a loud  hem  from  Polwarth,  who 
advanced,  and,  taking  the  hand  of  the  lady,  repeated  his 
wish  to  retain  it  forever,  for  at  least  the  fiftieth  time.  She 
heard  him,  in  silence,  and  with  much  apparent  respect, 
though  an  arch  smile  stole  upon  her  gravity,  before  he  had 
ended.  She  then  thanked  him  with  suitable  grace,  and 
gave  a final  and  decided  refusal.  The  captain  sustained  the 
repulse  like  one  who  had  seen  much  similar  service,  and 
politely  lent  his  assistance  to  help  the  obdurate  girl  into  her 
boat.  Here  she  was  received  by  a young  man,  who  was 
apparelled  like  an  American  officer.  Sir  Lionel  thought  the 
bloom  on  her  cheek  deepened,  as  her  companion  assiduously 
drew  a cloak  around  her  form  to  protect  her  from  the  chill 
of  the  water.  Instead  of  returning  to  the  town,  the  boat, 
which  bore  a flag,  pulled  directly  for  the  shore  occupied  by 
the  Americans.  The  following  week,  Agnes  was  united  to 
this  gentleman,  in  the  bosom  of  her  own  family.  They 
soon  after  took  quiet  possession  of  the  house  in  Treinont 
Street,  and  of  all  the  large  real  estate  left  by  Mrs.  Lech- 
mere,  which  had  been  previously  bestowed  on  her,  by  Cecil, 
as  a dowry. 

As  soon  as  his  passengers  appeared,  the  captain  of  the 
frigate  communicated  with  his  admiral,  by  signal,  and  re- 
ceived, in  return,  the  expected  order  to  proceed  in  the 
execution  of  his  trust.  In  a few  minutes  the  swift  vessel 
was  gliding  by  the  heights  of  Dorchester,  training  her  guns 
on  the  adverse  hills,  and  hurriedly  spreading  her  canvas  as 
she  passed.  The  Americans,  however,  looked  on  in  sullen 
silence,  and  she  was  suffered  to  gain  the  open  ocean,  unmo- 
lested, when  she  made  the  best  of  her  way  to  England,  with 
the  important  intelligence  of  the  intended  evacuation. 

She  was  speedily  followed  by  the  fleet,  since  which  period 


432 


5Ltonet  Xincoln 


the  long-oppressed  and  devoted  town  of  Boston  has  never 
been  visited  by  an  armed  enemy. 

During  their  passage  to  England,  sufficient  time  was 
allowed  Lionel  and  his  gentle  companion  to  reflect  on  all 
that  had  occurred.  Together,  and  in  the  fullest  confidence, 
they  traced  the  wanderings  of  intellect  which  had  so  closely 
and  mysteriously  connected  the  deranged  father  with  his 
impotent  child  ; and,  as  they  reasoned,  by  descending  to  the 
secret  springs  of  his  disordered  impulses,  they  were  easily 
enabled  to  divest  the  incidents  we  have  endeavored  to  relate, 
of  all  their  obscurity  and  doubt. 

The  keeper,  who  had  been  sent  in  quest  of  the  fugitive 
madman,  never  returned  to  his  native  land.  No  offers  of 
forgiveness  could  induce  the  unwilling  agent  in  the  death 
of  the  baronet  to  trust  his  person,  again,  within  the  influ- 
ence of  the  British  laws.  Perhaps  he  was  conscious  of  a 
motive,  that  none  but  an  inward  monitor  might  detect. 
Lionel,  tired  at  length  with  importuning  without  success, 
commissioned  the  husband  of  Agnes  to  place  him  in  a situa- 
tion where,  by  industry,  his  future  comfort  was  amply 
secured. 

Polwarth  died  quite  lately.  Notwithstanding  his  maimed 
limb,  he  contrived,  by  the  assistance  of  his  friend,  to  ascend 
the  ladder  of  promotion,  by  regular  gradations,  nearly  to  its 
summit.  At  the  close  of  his  long  life,  he  wrote  Gen.,  Bart., 
and  M.  P.  after  his  name.  When  England  was  threatened 
with  the  French  invasion,  the  garrison  he  commanded  was 
distinguished  for  being  better  provisioned  than  any  other  in 
the  realm,  and  no  doubt  it  would  have  made  a resistance 
equal  to  its  resources.  In  Parliament,  where  he  sat  for  one 
of  the  Lincoln  boroughs,  he  was  chiefly  distinguished  for 
the  patience  with  which  he  listened  to  the  debates,  and  for 
the  remarkable  cordiality  of  the  “ Ay  ” that  he  pronounced 
on  every  vote  for  supplies.  To  the  day  of  his  death,  he  was 
a strenuous  advocate  for  the  virtues  of  a rich  diet,  in  all 
cases  of  physical  suffering,  “especially,”  as  he  would  add, 
with  an  obstinacy  that  fed  itself,  “ in  instances  of  debility 
from  febrile  symptoms.” 

Within  a year  of  their  arrival,  the  uncle  of  Cecil  died, 


%ioncl  ^Lincoln 


433 


having  shortly  before  followed  an  only  son  to  the  grave. 
By  this  unlooked-for  event,  Lady  Lincoln  became  the  pos- 
sessor of  his  large  estates,  as  well  as  of  an  ancient  barony, 
that  descended  to  the  heirs  general.  From  this  time  until 
the  eruption  of  the  French  Revolution,  Sir  Lionel  Lincoln, 
and  Lady  Cardonnell,  as  Cecil  was  now  styled,  lived  together 
in  sweetest  concord  ; the  gentle  influence  of  her  affection 
moulding  and  bending  the  feverish  temperament  of  her 
husband,  at  will.  The  heirloom  of  the  family,  that  dis- 
tempered feeling  so  often  mentioned,  was  forgotten,  in  the 
even  tenor  of  their  happiness.  When  the  heaviest  pressure 
on  the  British  Constitution  was  apprehended,  and  it  became 
the  policy  of  the  minister  to  enlist  the  wealth  and  talent  of 
his  nation  in  its  support,  by  propping  the  existing  adminis- 
tration, the  rich  baronet  received  a peerage  in  his  own  per- 
son. Before  the  end  of  the  century,  he  was  further  advanced 
to  a dormant  earldom,  that  had,  in  former  ages,  been  one 
of  the  honors  of  an  elder  branch  of  his  family. 

Of  all  the  principal  actors  in  the  foregoing  tale,  not  one 
is  now  living.  Even  the  roses  of  Cecil  and  Agnes  have  long 
since  ceased  to  bloom,  and  Death  has  gathered  them,  in 
peace  and  innocence,  with  all  that  had  gone  before.  The 
historical  facts  of  our  legend  are  beginning  to  be  obscured 
by  time  ; and  it  is  more  than  probable  that  the  prosperous 
and  affluent  English  peer,  who  now  enjoys  the  honors  of  the 
house  of  Lincoln,  never  knew  the  secret  history  of  his 
family,  while  it  sojourned  in  a remote  province  of  the  Brit- 
ish empire. 

28 


THE  END, 


